Car Crashes Caused by Roadway Defects and Hazards in Tennessee

Car Crashes Caused by Roadway Defects and Hazards in TennesseeA defective roadway, dangerous conditions on a street or highway, or many other environmental factors can cause car crashes. In its National Motor Vehicle Crash Causation Survey, researchers for the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration considered factors such as the roadway or environment that contributed to the cause of a motor vehicle crash. The NHTSA estimates that roadway defects, poor road conditions, and similar factors attribute to approximately 14,000 fatalities each year in the United States. One of the challenges with accidents caused by defective road conditions is that they often require complicated investigations and filing claims against governmental entities.

Examples of poor road conditions that can contribute to motor vehicle crashes

After a harsh winter, there will be potholes in the streets that can cause damage to a vehicle’s wheels and even ruin a transmission, but here are a few other road conditions that can cause a car crash:

  • Uneven pavement
  • Missing or ineffective guardrails
  • Lack of signage (directional and warning signs)
  • Malfunctioning traffic signals
  • Dangerous intersections
  • Poor lighting
  • Roadway obstructions
  • Poorly designed construction zones
  • Lack of roadway surface maintenance
  • Standing water

When you are dealing with a crash that was not caused by another negligent driver, it does not mean that you will not be able to bring a claim against the responsible party. A competent, Memphis personal injury attorney from Bailey & Greer understands what it takes to pursue a claim against the governmental entities and/or private contractors responsible for maintaining the road, and making sure that the roads do not have defects and other hazardous conditions that can cause accidents and injuries to citizens using the road during the day and night. Once the responsible party has been identified, the next step is to determine whether or not they should have been aware of the situation and taken steps to remedy the situation. If evidence can be found that shows that they knew of the condition and did not rectify it, they may be found to be negligent.

Filing a personal injury claim for a car crash that was caused by defects in the roadway are complicated, and they require the help of someone who knows how to file such a claim. Having an experienced Memphis or Jackson auto accident attorney on your side will help to make sure that the accident is thoroughly investigated and that you get the maximum amount of compensation available for your injuries and property damage.

At the law firm of Bailey & Greer, PLLC, we protect the rights of those who have been injured in car crashes throughout West Tennessee. You are welcome to contact us to schedule a free consultation to discuss your case with one of our experienced Jackson or Memphis auto accident attorneys.