Unfortunately, there is only so much that drivers can do to stay safe on the road, as there are many outside factors that influence their travels, from other drivers to weather. If you were injured because of poor road conditions, understanding how to proceed and recover the compensation you deserve is critical. Unfortunately, many are unsure how to fight for justice, which is why connecting with a Baltimore County auto accident attorney is vital. The following blog explores more about these collisions and why legal representation is essential to fight for compensation.
What Are Examples of Poor Road Conditions?
Generally, there are two primary forms of road conditions – issues with the road itself and weather. It’s important to understand that either of these can cause collisions.
If there are issues with the road itself, this can lead to collisions. Common problems include, but are not limited to:
- Missing traffic signs
- Improperly designed roads
- Faded paint
- Debris on the road
Weather conditions can also lead to poor road conditions. When roads are covered in ice or snow, drivers can lose control of their vehicles, colliding with other drivers on the road. Similarly, if roads aren’t designed well, rain and wet weather can accumulate in dips in the road, making it unsafe for cars to drive through.
How Does This Impact Liability?
When the road conditions are adequate and an accident occurs, it may seem more cut and dry to determine liability. However, if roads are poorly designed or impacted by the weather, there are additional factors that must be taken into consideration.
Generally, the driver responsible for the collision will be held liable. This is because their negligent actions caused the collision. However, if the poor roads were the reason the driver collided with another person, the town or municipality responsible for the roads could be liable. For example, if they have not maintained the streets or did not clear snow or ice in a reasonable time, the town can be held responsible.
Additionally, you may find that both the driver and the government can be liable, as the driver’s negligent actions, in conjunction with unsafe road conditions, can lead to both entities facing responsibility.
What Should I Do if I Want to File a Lawsuit?
If you want to file a lawsuit, connecting with an experienced attorney is critical to fighting for the best possible outcome to recover damages if you’ve been injured.
In Maryland, there is a three-year statute of limitations for personal injuries, meaning you only have three years from the date the accident occurred to file a lawsuit against the negligent party. However, it is necessary to understand that if you are filing a lawsuit against a government entity, you must file a Notice of Claim with the agency. This must be filed within six months of the accident to pursue compensation for the damages they’ve endured.
At the Law Offices of Markey & Orsi, we understand how complex these matters are. Our team is committed to working with you to recover the compensation you deserve for the damages you’ve suffered at the hands of a negligent party. Connect with us today to learn how we can fight for you through these challenging matters.
