How does road design factor into a vehicle crash?
A road design issue may contribute to a crash when the roadway fails to meet the demands of traffic or pedestrian movement, or when the design itself creates dangerous conditions. Some common road design problems include:
- Inadequate Visibility: Overgrown bushes or other obstructions that prevent drivers from seeing oncoming traffic, pedestrians, or road signs.
- Improper Lane Design: Lanes that are too narrow, incorrectly marked, or poorly aligned can lead to confusion and collisions.
- Dangerous Merges: Merge points that are too short or located in hazardous spots can cause accidents, particularly in high-traffic areas.
These and other design flaws can create conditions where even the most cautious driver might be at risk of an accident.
Investigating Road Design in a Crash
Proving that a road design flaw contributed to a vehicle crash often requires expert analysis. At Bache & Lynch, we collaborate with road design experts and accident reconstructionists to build a strong case. The accident reconstructionist helps explain how the collision occurred, while the road design expert identifies the specific design flaws that made the crash more likely.
In some cases, our investigation involves filing a public records request to obtain internal communications from the local government or county responsible for the roadway. These records might reveal that officials were aware of the problem but failed to take corrective action, which can be a crucial piece of evidence in your case.
Holding Responsible Parties Accountable
When a road design issue is identified as a factor in a crash, it’s possible to hold the responsible entity, such as a city or county government, accountable for their failure to maintain a safe roadway. By demonstrating that the entity knew about the problem and did not address it, we can argue that they are liable for the damages caused by the accident.
Why Choose Bache & Lynch?
Investigating and proving road design flaws in a vehicle crash requires a deep understanding of both the legal and technical aspects of these cases. At Bache & Lynch, we have the experience and resources necessary to pursue these complex claims.
If you’ve been involved in a vehicle crash and suspect that road design may have played a role, contact us today for a free consultation. We are here to help you explore all potential factors in your case and fight for your right to compensation.