We are very used to seeing poorly maintained roads and highways. Potholes caused by poor drainage systems are common after snow storms and heavy rains. However, sometimes these potholes and other defects are caused by the negligence of others. Fortunately, most people who go through these potholes experience little more than a pothole or blown tire while driving over the pothole. However, there are some people who are seriously injured due to this negligent care of the roads. Millions of dollars are available to states and cities to maintain their roads and prevent car accidents and property damage from occurring. However, if they don’t properly maintain their pathways, maintenance may be overlooked.
There are many different causes of road defects. The definition of “road defect” includes any part of a road, highway, or construction site that does not meet standards for a safe road. Defects that most often cause injury to people or damage to vehicles include:
- inadequate shoulders
- Lanes that are uneven
- Pavement that is uneven
- poorly marked signs
- Malfunctioning brake lights
- negligent construction
- municipal negligence
Fortunately for those who have been harmed by these defects, personal injury attorneys are often able to obtain compensation for the victims. Car damage, if caused by a road defect, can be paid for. Medical bills and job loss will be eligible for compensation if a car accident investigation determines that the accident was actually caused by a road defect. Road defects like these should be reported to authorities as they can prevent future injuries to others.
It is highly unlikely that you will not see a road defect in your lifetime. They are everywhere and the danger of their effects cannot be ignored. Especially when driving on highways at high speeds, any bump in the road can be life-threatening.