Each year, there are millions of car accidents. Although many are due to driver’s mistakes or negligence, there are also many caused by poor road conditions due to insufficient maintenance. In fact, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation, approximately 38% of the roads in the state of Texas are in poor or mediocre condition. In our state, there are thousands of accidents due to bad roads. In these cases, the state agency responsible for road maintenance can be held liable.
Signs of a Poorly Maintained Road
Poorly maintained roads can potentially cause damages to a motorist’s vehicle in the following ways:
- Potholes
- Overgrown trees or plants that obstruct visibility
- Lack of visible signage
- Flooding due to poor drainage
- Debris or other hazards on the roadways
- Faded or missing line markers
- Insufficient lighting or burned out street lamps
- Cracks that cause uneven pavement
- Malfunctioning traffic signals
Following an accident, an essential first step is to contact an experienced attorney. They will conduct a thorough investigation into the cause of the accident to determine whether it was due to poor road conditions and/or negligence. They will examine the weather, the road conditions, and related issues.
Each Car Accident Needs to Be Investigated Thoroughly
Drivers who are injured in an accident when only their car was involved may think that it was their fault. However, there are other issues to consider, such as poor road maintenance and signage. It is recommended that you always consult an experienced lawyer for help, because their investigation may show that the state agency in charge of the road maintenance was at fault, and you may be compensated for your injuries and damages to your vehicle.
State and Local Government Is Responsible for Road Maintenance
It is the responsibility of state and local governments to maintain roads and highways to keep them safe for motorists. When there are accidents and it is determined that a hazard or poorly maintained road is the cause, injury victims may be able to sue for damages. An important first step is to call an experienced auto accident attorney, because there are special laws and issues to consider when filing a lawsuit against the government. Your lawyer can guide you in the process and inform you about the regulations so you are properly compensated for your injuries.
If you are injured in an accident on a private road, you may be able to seek damages by suing the property owner. For your personal injury claim to be successful, you will need to prove the property owner’s negligence in their failure to maintain their private road. An experienced Houston Car Accident Attorney can help, contact Chelsie King Garza today.
Contact a Houston Car Accident Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one have suffered damages caused by a poorly maintained road, contact Chelsie King Garza, an auto accident attorney at 713-893-8808 to discuss your claim. Chelsie offers free initial consultations and will fight to get you the justice you deserve.
