road littered with potholes

What Should I Do if I am Involved in an Accident Caused by a Road Hazard?

As a driver, you may assume that the biggest risk on the road is other drivers. While others on the road can and do cause accidents, you must also remain on the lookout for road hazards. If you have sustained an injury or damages due to a road hazard left by a negligent party, understanding your legal options is critical. The following blog explores some of the most common dangers on the road and how our Irvine auto accident lawyers can help you fight for the compensation you deserve.

What Kind of Hazards Can Lead to Accidents?

Any time there is an object, obstacle, or dangerous condition on the road that should not be there, it is considered a hazard as it can lead to accidents and injuries for drivers. It is important to ensure that you familiarize yourself with the most common hazards on the road so you can remain alert to potential dangers and mitigate risks. Common hazards that can lead to a collision include, but are not limited to:

  • Potholes
  • Loose or missing manhole covers
  • Tree branches or limbs
  • Construction debris
  • Uneven surfaces

If you are involved in an accident caused by one of the aforementioned hazards, understanding how to proceed is critical. Generally, the most important thing you should do is call 911 to report the accident, even if you are the only car involved. Not only does this ensure you will receive a formal police report, but it also allows you to request medical treatment. If you feel physically okay, you should still be examined by emergency medical technicians to establish a record of your care.

Can I Seek Compensation for Damages Caused by a Road Hazard?

If you are injured in an accident caused by a hazard on the road, it is imperative to understand that you do not have to write this off as an unfortunate incident. You should connect with an experienced attorney to help fight for the justice you deserve.

Determining who is responsible for the hazard is important to your case. If you are injured because of a pothole in the road, you may find that a municipality is responsible. The entity responsible for maintaining the road, whether it be the city, county, or state, can face liability if it knew about the pothole but failed to remedy the hazard. However, if your injury is caused by construction debris, working with an attorney can help properly investigate the company responsible for leaving the hazard on the road to hold them liable.

When you are involved in an accident, understanding your right to fight for compensation from the negligent party is critical. The team at California Personal Injury Law Firm, APC, is ready to fight for you. We believe negligent parties should be held liable for their actions, especially when it leaves you seriously injured. Connect with us today to discuss your legal options with a member of our firm.

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