Driving is a dangerous business, and the negligent actions of others can make things worse. A car crash can result in serious property damage and injuries, so it is important to know that the law empowers you to hold the negligent party responsible. Get in touch with an experienced car accident lawyer as soon as possible after a crash to get started on your claim.
Here are 5 factors that can make roads even more dangerous. Knowing these factors in advance can help you prevent accidents in the future.
1. Poor Road Conditions and Improper Maintenance
Potholes, cracks, and other road defects are often the result of improper maintenance. Aside from being unsightly, poor road conditions also present real dangers that drivers should be keenly aware of. It is estimated that pothole damages alone often collectively cost drivers millions of dollars every year, and that they can and do lead to many accidents.
It is possible that your accident was not your fault if it was caused by poor road conditions. It is the duty of the city or state you live in to ensure road conditions are safe and that there are no issues due to poor maintenance. You may be able to hold them accountable for your accident, but it is still best to consult with an attorney about your case first before filing any claim.
2. Dangerous Driving Behaviors
Speeding, distracted driving, and driving under the influence (DUI) are all-too-common reasons why car accidents occur. A reckless driver engaging in dangerous behavior makes the road significantly more dangerous, and they can be held liable for their negligent actions if they caused your accident.
3. Weather and Environmental Hazards
The weather can lead to environmental hazards that make road conditions unsafe. Rain and ice can lead to slippery roads, and fog can obscure vision. If you live in an area where rain, snow, or fog is more prevalent, it is important to drive extra carefully during those times for your safety and the safety of others around you.
Weather can absolve drivers of responsibility for an accident, albeit with some limitations, as extreme weather is considered by the court to be an “act of God,” or out of the driver’s control. However, there are still key details to examine in car accident cases wherein weather is a component to figure out how much of the blame for the accident lies on the weather. This is where a lawyer can help you.
4. High-Risk Areas for Accidents
“High-risk areas” on the road are areas that are known to be prone to accidents. These include:
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Intersections - Intersections are often hot spots for accidents. This is because drivers can find it difficult to decide who has the right of way, and there are multiple streams of traffic, which is a recipe for disaster.
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Blind spots - Blind spots refer to areas on the road where there is very little or no visibility of oncoming pedestrians or traffic. These areas often lead to risky situations that can turn into accidents.
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High-traffic zones - High-traffic zones are roads that often have a lot of cars travelling through them at any given time, especially during rush hours. The more cars that are clustered together, the higher the risk of rear-end collisions and other accidents.
Determining fault for an accident in a high-risk area can be tricky. An experienced lawyer can assist you in sorting through all the details and potential parties involved with your accident.
5. Lack of Proper Infrastructure
Road infrastructure is critical for the safety of all drivers. When designing roads, they must account for several safety measures, such as:
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Proper traffic signage
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Guard rails
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Lack of uneven surfaces or blind spots
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Lighting
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Accounting for traffic flow and optimization for reduced congestion
Not considering these items can lead to serious, sometimes even fatal, crashes. It is the responsibility of the urban planners from the city or state to ensure that proper infrastructure is in place to reduce risk on the road. Not doing so can potentially make them liable for any accidents that occur.
How to Stay Safe on Hazardous Roads
There are several things you can do to stay safe on hazardous roads:
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Drive defensively and stay alert. Always maintain constant awareness on the road and do not drive with any distractions. Actively scan the road and use all your mirrors to keep a constant view of any potential dangers.
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Drive slowly near hazards. If you see dangerous conditions or believe that dangerous conditions are ahead, do not be afraid to slow down. Slowing down gives you more control over your car and allows you to react better to any dangers.
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Use your signals. Using your turn signals and hazard lights are important to communicate to other drivers of any dangers on the road and how you plan to maneuver them. This can help reduce the risk of an accident occurring.
In short, drive defensively, communicate effectively with your signals, and drive slowly. These three things should help significantly increase your safety near hazardous road conditions.
Tips for Defensive Driving in Dangerous Conditions
Defensive driving is not as complex as it seems. Here are a few tips to help you drive defensively in the event you encounter dangerous conditions on the road:
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Always drive well-rested. If you feel drowsy or fatigued, pull over and rest before you hit the road again.
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Always have your guard up while on the road. Do not use your phone while driving, and have your attention on the road at all times.
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Be wary of the weather. Changing weather conditions can create hazardous situations on the road. Being mindful of the weather is essential to defensive driving.
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Do not take risks. A general rule of thumb is, if it seems dangerous, it is dangerous, so you should always trust your instincts. For example, if there is heavy rain, then it is in your best interest to drive slowly and be mindful of flash floods.
Generally speaking, whenever possible, it is always wise to avoid driving if there are significant risks and hazards.
Dangerous conditions on the road can lead to serious accidents. If you were involved in a car accident, contact an experienced team of personal injury attorneys as soon as possible to help you take the legal steps to recover financial compensation.
Talk to a Lawyer if You’ve Been Hurt in a Car Crash
After a car accident, it can be hard to know what to do. The law allows you to file a claim to hold the negligent party responsible for your damages. Do not hesitate to get help from a car accident lawyer today.