Poor road conditions are more than just frustrating; they can be very dangerous. For those in Western New York, the winter can also seriously affect roadways, leaving behind potholes and other obstacles that create driving hazards. When a road is not constructed or maintained properly, it can cause motor vehicle accidents and injuries.
If you have been injured in a crash caused by an unsafe road, contact the experienced car accident attorneys at William Mattar, P.C. We will fight to help you receive maximum compensation.
Common Types of Road Defects
You have likely encountered road defects on your daily commute. Defects on the road, such as potholes, can not only damage your vehicle, but they can also result in serious collisions. Some hazards may even be unexpected or difficult to spot before it’s too late and an accident occurs. Examples include:
- Potholes;
- Debris;
- Cracks;
- Poor lighting;
- Missing or insufficient signs;
- Poorly marked intersections or ramps;
- Bumpy or uneven pavement;
- Uncleared snow and/or ice;
- Missing or defective guardrails;
- Faint or badly painted lines and lane markers;
- Broken stoplights; and
- Dangerous construction zones.
If you believe a road defect caused your accident and subsequent injuries, call William Mattar P.C. right away so we can review your case and get started on your claim.
Injuries Caused by a Road Defect Accident
A road defect can result in a driver losing control of a vehicle and steering into oncoming traffic or veering off the road. It can also cause collisions with other cars and objects, such as trees and walls. Depending on the circumstances, this type of crash can result in severe, debilitating injuries that require long-term treatment or recovery. Road defect crashes can cause victims to sustain:
- Traumatic brain injuries;
- Spinal cord injuries;
- Neck or back injuries;
- Lacerations;
- Burns;
- Broken bones;
- Bone fractures; and
- Internal injuries.
Accident injuries can leave a victim with a number of expenses, not to mention physical and emotional pain, resulting from their situation. That’s where the experienced accident lawyers at William Mattar P.C. come in — call us today if you’ve been hurt in a crash.
Who is Liable in a Roadway Defect Accident?
Roadway owners, including municipalities,have a responsibility to maintain roadways and can be liable for an accident resulting from a dangerous road defect. Specifically, suppose a municipality has prior written notice about a defect and does not repair it or address the issue. In that case, the municipality may be held responsible in the event of a motor vehicle crash. In addition, if the municipality affirmatively created the defect, liability can follow.
Parties that may be liable in a roadway defect accident include a government agency (such as town or city), a business hired to perform road work or construction, a manufacturer of a defective product (such as a guardrail), or any other entity that was responsible for the defect. A lawyer can examine the facts and determine potentially responsible parties. If unsafe road conditions caused your accident, a personal injury attorney can investigate and help determine which party is liable for damages.
Filing a Claim After an Unsafe Road Crash
After an unsafe road crash, it’s essential to consult with a car accident attorney as soon as possible.
Filing a claim against a municipality or local government is a time-sensitive endeavor. In New York, a notice of claim against a municipality must be filed within 90 days, or you may run the risk of not being able to make a claim for compensation.
If you are looking for a lawyer speak with an experienced car accident lawyer at William Mattar P.C. today — we can begin gathering evidence and start working on your accident claim. We know you may need compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses and can guide you through the process.
Contact an Experienced Car Accident Lawyer Today
If you’ve been injured in an accident caused by a road defect, contact a car accident lawyer at William Mattar P.C. Our legal team has the experience and knowledge to help you receive maximum compensation.. William Mattar P.C. offers free and confidential initial consultations. To schedule yours, call (844) 444 - 4444 or fill our online consultation form today.