Road Injury Lawyer & Defective Road Maintenance Attorney For Bad Road Design, Poor Road Maintenance, & Construction Zones

Road conditions can often be a critical factor in car and truck accidents, beyond the actions of another driver. As an experienced road injury law firm, we recognize that poor or defective road design can significantly contribute to accidents. Similarly, the current condition of a road, or a failure in its proper maintenance, can be just as impactful. This includes issues like potholes, inadequate or missing signage, malfunctioning traffic control signals, and the general poor condition of the road, including faded or absent road markings.

Temporary road conditions, particularly in construction zones, also present significant risks. It is the duty of the construction company to ensure the safety of drivers during roadworks. This includes clear temporary signage, the use of pylons and cones to safely direct traffic flow, and effective traffic control. However, the presence of construction equipment, altered traffic patterns, and potential vision obstructions can distract drivers and increase the risk of accidents.

In such situations, a comprehensive investigation is crucial to determine the roles of bad road design, insufficient maintenance, and unsafe construction zone practices. If you’ve been injured in an accident and suspect that road conditions played a part, don’t hesitate to contact Bache & Lynch. As experienced road defect attorneys, we are dedicated to uncovering the truth and fighting for the compensation you deserve. Call us to schedule a free consultation.

We offer a free consultation and proudly serve Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, SaddleBrooke, and the Surrounding Communities.

What Is Considered Good Road Design?

Although roadway design has improved significantly throughout the 19th century and through the present, errors in design and construction may still contribute to motor vehicle accidents. In many ways, safer road design can make transportation safer for motorists, motorcyclists, bicyclists, and pedestrians. Federal and state transportation guidelines stress the importance of good design that is both safe for road users and sensitive to the surrounding environment.

A safe road environment should:

• Give consistent messages to road users.

• Provide no surprises

• Provide controlled releases of information

• Warn road users of any possible substandard features

• Inform road users of the type of unusual conditions that are likely to be encountered

• Guide road users through unusual sections of road

• Control road users through conflict points or areas of conflict

Who Is Responsible For The Design & Defects Of State Roads & Highways?

Local municipalities and state agencies are responsible for maintaining and controlling tens of thousands of miles under their jurisdiction. Such agencies have a legal responsibility for dangerous and defective conditions that exist on the roadways under their jurisdiction.

What Types Of Hazardous Road Design & Defects Cause Car And Truck Crashes?

A number of road design situations that cause automobile accidents may define dangerous & defective roadways, including:

• Inadequate or insufficient notification of an impending condition such as construction zone

• Inadequate or insufficient notification of an impending condition such as merging traffic

• Inadequate or insufficient notification of an impending condition such roads affected by weather conditions

• Reduction of shoulder or shoulder drop-off

• Roads poorly marked with highway division status, line striping and edge lines

• Excessive oil and/or gravel due to tar and road maintenance procedures

• Potholes

Who May Be Liable For A Car Accident Caused By Defective Or Unsafe Roads?

In cases where a car accident is caused by defective or poorly maintained roads, several parties may be potentially liable. Determining liability often involves an investigation into the cause of the defect or lack of maintenance. Possible liable parties include:

• Local or State Governments. Government entities are often responsible for the design, construction, and maintenance of public roads. If the accident is due to issues like potholes, inadequate signage, malfunctioning traffic signals, or poor road design, the relevant local or state government agency might be held liable.

• Construction Companies. If the defect is related to recent roadwork or construction, the company in charge of the construction might be responsible. This can include issues arising from improper construction, leaving debris on the roadway, or failing to adequately mark construction zones.

• Engineering Firms. In cases where the road’s design is at fault, such as issues with visibility, improper grading, or inadequate drainage, the engineering firm that designed the road might be liable.

• Maintenance Contractors. Some governments contract out road maintenance to private companies. If the road defect is due to lack of maintenance, such as unaddressed potholes or faded road markings, these contractors could be responsible.

• Manufacturers of Road Materials or Equipment. If the accident was caused by a failure of materials used in road construction or maintenance (like malfunctioning traffic lights or guardrail failures), the manufacturer of these materials or equipment might be liable.

It is important to note that laws and procedures for filing claims against government entities can be complex and often have stringent notice requirements and shorter time limits. Therefore, it’s crucial to seek legal advice promptly to navigate these complexities effectively. 

How We Investigate Defective Road Design, Improper Road Maintenance, And Construction Zone Accidents

The role that the road itself may play in an accident is an excellent illustration of how important it is to seek immediate help from experienced roadway attorneys after a car or truck accident. If the accident occurred on a poorly maintained road or a road with a design that doesn’t comply with industry standards, as experienced Tucson road defect attorneys, we can seek compensation from the government body that owns or repairs the road. Without a speedy investigation and examination by a qualified accident reconstructionist and highway engineer, that opportunity could be lost since evidence often deteriorates or disappears over time.

Similarly, construction zone accidents require immediate investigation. Because the construction zone is temporary, it’s important to document the actual scene of the accident as soon after the accident as possible, as construction cones and pylons and other aspects will be removed as soon as they are no longer needed. By documenting the construction zone as it existed when the accident occurred, we are better able to hold those accountable for the cause of the accident, and to secure compensation for those injured or the families of the deceased.

Schedule A Free Consultation With An Experienced Oro Valley Road Defect Lawyer

Choosing a lawyer to help with a personal injury claim resulting from a road condition accident is important. We offer free consultations so you can visit with us and meet our legal team. Our road defect attorneys will discuss the accident with you and provide information about how we would approach your case if you retain us. To schedule a free, confidential consultation, please call us at 520-293-5300. Or, if you prefer, use our easy online contact form to make an appointment.