Driving down South Carolina roadways is often a test of quick reflexes and avoidance between the numerous potholes, uneven surfaces, and other hazards that give driving the “Jurassic-park-level” thrill.
While we tend to accept that poor road conditions will often accompany our driving adventures, what happens when a road hazard results in a car accident? Who do you hold responsible for your accident to receive the compensation you deserve?
Follow along as our car accident lawyers guide you through defining poor road conditions, who is held responsible for your accident, and how we can help you during your car accident claim.
What Are Considered “Poor Road Conditions?”
Poor road conditions are defined as any road surface that is improperly maintained, resulting in hazards or accidents to those who use it.
Along with potholes and uneven pavement, some of the most common types of poor road conditions include the following:
Missing or Damaged Guardrails
Guardrails are metal railings placed along the sides of roads to prevent vehicles from straying onto the shoulder or into the median. When guardrails are missing or damaged, particularly on sharp turns or elevated roads, the results can be catastrophic and, in some cases, fatal.
Inadequate Signage
Signs and road markers are key safety features that guide drivers and ensure safe travels on unfamiliar roads. However, when signage is missing, obscured, or faded, drivers can become confused and make dangerous maneuvers that put themselves and others at risk.
Debris and Obstacles
Fallen branches, construction materials, or loose pieces from our vehicles are all forms of debris that can result in a car accident. Failure to remove the debris or obstructions can create dangerous situations for drivers, whether that be a last-minute reaction that results in a collision or crashing into the obstacle altogether.
Poorly Designed Roadways
As a driver, you’ve most likely experienced a road that could have benefited from a better design, whether that be a too-short merge lane, a lack of emergency stopping lanes, or others. These roads present a challenge in the best conditions, but when coupled with adverse weather, they can have disastrous consequences.
Who’s Held Liable for Accidents Caused by Road Hazards?
Many drivers tend to equate compensation for car accidents with a collision; however, victims of car accidents caused by poor road conditions may have an opportunity to receive compensation for their damages and injuries.
Determining liability in these incidents, however, can be a challenge.
In many cases, road maintenance is the responsibility of a city, county, or state government. However, in cases where private contractors are hired to maintain the roads, liability may be found with them.
To establish liability, you must prove that the person responsible for road maintenance knew of the hazardous conditions and failed to address them in a reasonable time.
How Your Charleston Car Accident Attorney Can Help Your Case
Proving liability is no easy feat in many cases, but proving it in a case involving poor road conditions requires extra investigative work and legal know-how.
That’s why you can rest assured when you leave it to Hoffman.
When working with a local car accident attorney near you, we can help you prove negligence in cases involving poor road conditions and secure the compensation you deserve. From obtaining maintenance records to reviewing past complaints and establishing the responsible party, we can help you turn a complex case into a fair settlement.
With offices in Georgetown, SC, and Charleston, SC, our personal injury law firm proudly advocates for accident victims throughout the Palmetto State. As the locals’ trusted personal injury law firm, we have extensive experience handling a wide range of cases.
We have established a reputation for success and excellent service! To meet with a member of our team, schedule your free consultation today. We are here to help!
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