Guardrails are meant to protect drivers and passengers by serving as a barrier in the event of a collision. Some guardrails, however, do not function the way they are supposed to during a crash, possibly causing more harm than good. A car crash with an ineffective or defective guardrail can result in immense damage and severe injuries to vehicle occupants.
If you’ve been hurt in an accident involving a guardrail, contact William Mattar Law Offices. Our legal team fights to help injury victims receive the compensation they need for medical care, lost wages, and other accident-related expenses. We are standing by 24/7 to talk with you about your case—just dial 844-noswap444-4444 to get started today.
Why are Guardrails Used?
Highway guardrails are an essential safety measure designed to protect motorists who have veered off the road or drifted out of their lane of travel. Guardrails often separate two sections of a highway that are traveling in opposite directions.
In the event of a collision between two motor vehicles, a guardrail can potentially stop one of the vehicles from swerving into an oncoming lane. Depending on where it is placed, a guardrail can prevent motorists from hitting various obstacles (such as trees or buildings) or separate traffic from steep or dangerous terrain (such as an edge).
Defective Guardrails
When hit, guardrails are supposed to absorb the impact and slow down, or deflect, a vehicle; this is known as “telescoping.”
However, if a guardrail has a design, manufacturing, or installation flaw, it may not telescope upon impact. Instead, a defective guardrail can split or break, resulting in a dangerous situation where the metal can impale the vehicle. When a guardrail penetrates a car, vehicle occupants can suffer catastrophic and even fatal injuries.
One issue that can result in a faulty guardrail accident includes improper installation. For instance, a construction company may take a shortcut and fail to install a guardrail to the proper specifications. This can have serious consequences for drivers on the road.
Who is Responsible for a Dangerous Guardrail Crash?
If a guardrail creates a hazard and furthers the damage sustained in a motor vehicle accident or even impales a vehicle, it is likely defective. In this case, the manufacturer, designer, or party that produced the defective guardrail may be at fault for the collision. Potentially liable parties can include a government body, the guardrail design or manufacturing company, or the construction company that installed the guardrails.
Accident victims who suffer serious injuries in a guardrail-related crash may have a claim for compensation. Damages can include compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, loss of future income, emotional damages, and pain and suffering. Speak to a personal injury lawyer today to learn more about your legal options after a serious car crash involving a defective guardrail.
Injured in a Guardrail Accident?
If you or someone you love has been hurt in a guardrail accident, William Mattar can help. Our experienced accident attorneys fight for those who have been injured in a variety of different accidents. We know the many struggles injury victims face and want to help ensure they get the compensation they deserve. To schedule a free initial consultation, call our legal team at (844) 444 - 4444, or complete our online consultation form today.