Who Can I Sue if My Accident Was Caused by Road Conditions?
Poor road conditions are a significant contributor to traffic accidents. Accidents caused by poor road conditions can be complex, especially when it comes to determining liability. After an accident happens because of bad road conditions, it may be unclear who you should hold liable for your injuries and damages. If you are in an accident caused by bad road conditions, you should speak to a car accident attorney. A skilled attorney can guide you through the process of determining liability and seeking compensation for your injuries and damages. This article discusses who you can sue if road conditions cause an accident.
Understanding the Role of Poor Road Conditions in Accidents
Poor road conditions are a major factor in many traffic accidents. Accidents caused by poor road conditions can result in severe injuries and even death. Factors such as potholes, debris, faulty road design, malfunctioning traffic signals, faded road markings, and inadequate signage can contribute to traffic collisions. Poor road conditions can compromise vehicle control. For example, potholes, loose gravel, and uneven surfaces can damage vehicle suspension or cause tire blowouts, resulting in a driver losing control of their vehicle. Inadequate signage and faded road markings can reduce visibility, making it hard for motorists to navigate safely.
Who Is Responsible When an Accident Occurs Due to Poor Road Conditions
When you are involved in an accident due to bad road conditions, figuring out who is liable for your injuries and damages can be challenging. Below, we break down who might be responsible for your injuries and damages if poor road conditions caused your accident;
Federal, State, or Local Government:
Generally, the federal, state, or local government is responsible for maintaining roads under its jurisdiction. When we pay taxes, we expect some money to be used to maintain safe road conditions. Unfortunately, this is not always the case, as poor road maintenance often results in accidents. If the government entity responsible for maintaining the road failed to address a dangerous condition and that condition caused your accident, they could be considered negligent and held liable.
However, suing a government entity can be a complex process. Filing a lawsuit against a government entity usually requires the assistance of a qualified car accident attorney.
Contractors or Subcontractors
Sometimes, the government hires contractors or subcontractors to do the work. If a contractor’s or subcontractor’s poor work causes an accident, they can be held responsible for any resulting injuries and damages. A skilled attorney can subpoena the government’s records to determine who the contractors or subcontractors are and how they may have contributed to your accident.
Product Manufacturers
Sometimes, accidents occur because of defective products. In such a case, the product manufacturer may be held liable under product liability laws. If it can be proven that a product defect caused an accident, the manufacturer could be sued for damages, including medical expenses. This can include manufacturers of substandard paving materials and faulty traffic lights.
Contact Us for Legal Help
If you were injured in an accident due to poor road conditions, contact our Orlando personal injury attorneys at The Pendas Law Firm. We can help you determine who is liable for your accident and file your compensation claim. We can help you fight for the compensation you deserve.
The Pendas Law Firm also represents clients in the West Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Fort Myers, Ocala, Daytona Beach, Miami, Tampa, Jacksonville, Bradenton, Naples, and Melbourne areas.
