The vast majority of car accidents are caused by driver error or drivers that are distracted, inexperienced, or intoxicated. But sometimes, a car accident occurs due to a road hazard. What kind of hazards can cause drivers to crash? Who is liable for car accidents caused by road hazards? Here’s what you need to know:
Common Road Hazards
A road hazard is any type of dangerous condition on the road, including excessive gravel, pot holes, oil spills, uneven lanes, standing water, or debris. Some road hazards, such as ice patches or snow, are caused by environmental elements. But others, such as pot holes and bumpy roads, are problems with the actual road itself.
Who is Liable For Car Accidents Caused by Road Hazards
If you have been injured in a car accident, the first thing that your attorney must do is determine who is at fault for the crash. If the accident occurred because of a problem with the road, the government entity that is responsible for maintaining the road could be held liable.
It’s important to note that filing a claim against the government is very different from filing a claim against another driver. How? First, the claim against the government must be filed within 180 days, which is significantly shorter than the three year time limit that other personal injury victims have. Before this 180 day period is up, the victim must submit a written notice that includes:
- Contact information
- Brief description of what happened, including where it happened and under what circumstances
- Information on what injuries the victim sustained in the accident
- How much compensation the victim is trying to recover
If this notice is not received within 180 days, the government will not allow you to file a claim. For this reason, it’s important to move quickly and get in touch with an attorney as soon as possible after an accident.
Other Liable Parties
The government is not the only party that could be responsible for your injuries. It’s possible that another driver involved in the accident was partly or totally to blame. If the accident was caused because of a road hazard near a construction site, the company that was contracted to do the construction may be responsible. Let an attorney analyze the details of your case to determine who should be held liable for your injuries.
Have you been injured in a car accident caused by a road hazard? If so, contact Reisch Law Firm today. Our personal injury attorneys have years of experience filing claims against city, county, and state government entities. Schedule a free consultation today by calling 303-291-0555 or filling out this online form.
