Roads And Intersections That Are Dangerous By Design
If you have been driving for long enough, you’ve probably heard how
you should watch for other vehicles in order to be safe on the road. This
is true, but what happens when the road itself is not safe? This is not
a situation that many people think of in terms of auto collisions, but
it is something to keep in mind. There are times when a design defect
can make the road a danger to all drivers out there, and it is important
to be aware of the potential issues you may encounter. This could be an
impactful way to make sure you are safe and can avoid serious injury.
Road Design Dangers
While it is still important to make sure you watch out for dangerous drivers on the road, there are things to watch out for when driving; dangerous road designs. In these types of cases, you may be able to pursue legal action against a contractor who helped build the road or the city in which the accident took place for not having the proper precautions in place. Below, we detail some of the potential road design defects that can be dangerous to drivers.
- Missing traffic lights: If there is an intersection without a traffic light that is susceptible to accidents, it may be beneficial for the city to put the traffic signal there. If they don’t and more accidents occur, they may be considered liable. Unfortunately, on roads with higher speed limits, people tend to go even faster than intended. A traffic light can help regulate speed and traffic to help prevent serious crashes.
- Improper speed limits: Speed limits should be based on the situation of the road. For instance, if there is a tight bend or turn, the speed limit posted should be reduced than it would be on a straightaway. A vehicle who tries to travel the same speed on a sharp turn risks the vehicle rolling or not seeing another vehicle in time to stop.
- Incorrect grades: If an incorrect grade is posted, it can alter the way drivers approach the road. If the driver is not prepared, it can make things more dangerous for them.
- Potholes: If the road experiences wear and tear over time, the concrete can begin to break and result in a pothole. These potholes are dangerous for drivers because they can affect how the vehicle maneuvers, even causing a tire blowout. This can send the vehicle out of control and result in a crash.
These are just some of the ways that road designs can be dangerous. They can even include other instances such as missing warning signs, broken barricades and guardrails, and more. It is important for these matters to be corrected so drivers on the road are safe from all dangers. If not, they are susceptible to possible injury caused by a crash.
If you or someone you love has been seriously injured in a car crash caused by a defective or dangerous road design, you should know your rights. Our Bay County auto collision lawyers at The Pittman Firm, P.A. are dedicated to representing individuals who have been harmed by the negligent actions of others. We understand what action can be taken and who we can file a lawsuit against in these types of cases. Our team is fully prepared to stand by your side and represent you every step of the way so you can obtain the compensation and the justice you need and deserve. Call today to learn more.
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