When roads and highways are not well-maintained, people are at risk. A study cited by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) found that a significant portion of crashes reviewed were caused by “poorly maintained or designed roads.” If you were involved in a poor road condition accident, it is imperative that you know how to protect your rights. Here, our Kansas City auto accident lawyers explain how poor road conditions can contribute to crashes and who can be held liable for the resulting damages.
Most Common Poor Road Conditions that Cause Crashes in Kansas City
There are many different adverse road conditions that can contribute to collisions in Kansas City. Some of the most common examples of road hazards that cause accidents include:
- Unrepaired Potholes: Potholes cannot only damage vehicles, but they can also cause serious accidents if left unrepaired. Most potholes exist, in part, because of poor maintenance. Even at a relatively low rate of speed, a pothole can be extremely dangerous.
- Problems With Signs: Roads should be well-marked. Issues with road signs—from missing signs to incorrect guidance—can create unsafe driving conditions. Properly maintained and visible signs are crucial for regulating traffic flow.
- Malfunctioning Traffic Lights: A malfunctioning traffic signal is dangerous. When traffic signals fail, drivers may become uncertain about the right-of-way. Bad accidents can happen.
- Debris in the Roadway: Debris in the roadway—such as branches, rocks, or materials from unsecured tractor-trailer loads—can pose a serious safety threat to drivers. Immediate action is required to address debris.
- Construction Negligence: Construction negligence includes improperly marked managed construction zones. It can create confusion and hazardous driving conditions. Lack of adequate signage, barriers, or warnings about changes in road patterns may all be unsafe.
- Road Design Flaws: In some cases, accidents happen because of inherent safety flaws related to the design of a road. For example, a portion of a road may not drain properly, and there may be consistent issues with water pooling in certain spots.
Every Serious Accident Requires a Thorough Investigation
In both Missouri and Kansas, motor vehicle accident liability is based on fault. Our Kansas City car crash lawyer can review your accident caused by bad road conditions and can gather and prepare all documents, records, and information that you need to hold the responsible party accountable. Depending on the nature and cause of your accident, at-fault parties may include:
- Highway construction crews;
- Road design firms;
- Businesses and property owners;
- Other motorists; and
- Government entities.
Set Up a Free Consultation With Our Kansas City Auto Accident Lawyer Today
At House Law LLC, our Kansas City car crash lawyer is standing by, ready to protect your rights and your interests. Hurt in a wreck caused by poor road conditions? We are here to help. Give us a phone call now or contact us online to set up a free, completely private case assessment. With a law office in Kansas City, we represent injured victims throughout the wider area of Missouri and Kansas.
Tags: brain injury, personal injury, traumatic brain injury
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