Road Defects

Accidents caused by road defects are more common than many realize, and they can lead to serious, life-altering injuries. From construction negligence to poorly maintained roads, hazardous conditions can put drivers at risk for severe collisions. Foran & Foran, P.A. is committed to holding negligent parties accountable when these preventable conditions lead to accidents. We handle a wide range of road defect cases, from potholes and uneven pavement to poor road design and lack of proper signage.

If you've been injured in a road defect-related Prince George's County accident, seeking legal representation is essential. Our experienced Prince George's County road defect lawyers are ready to help you pursue compensation for your injuries and losses. We are equipped to handle cases involving dangerous conditions like shoulder drop-offs, objects on the road, or even improper signage placement. Contact Foran & Foran to learn how we can assist you in your recovery process.

Various road defects can lead to accidents, many of which are preventable with proper maintenance and attention. Some of the most common types of road defects that contribute to accidents include:

• Construction negligence. When construction companies fail to properly manage a work zone, such as leaving debris or equipment on the road, they create dangerous situations for drivers.
• Lack of guardrails. On roads with steep drop-offs or curves, guardrails are essential for preventing vehicles from going off the road. The absence of guardrails can turn a simple accident into a fatal one.
• Lack of signage. Proper signage warns drivers of hazards such as sharp curves, changes in road elevation, or upcoming construction. Drivers can be caught off guard without adequate signage, leading to crashes.
• Municipal negligence. Government entities are responsible for maintaining safe road conditions. Failure to repair dangerous defects or adequately maintain the roads can lead to accidents caused by municipal negligence.
• Objects on the road . Debris, fallen trees, or objects left on the road due to inadequate maintenance or carelessness can cause sudden collisions or force drivers into dangerous maneuvers.
• Poor road design. Some accidents are caused by roads that were poorly designed from the start. Whether it's a sharp, blind curve or a road that encourages water pooling, poor design can contribute to accidents.
• Potholes. Large, deep potholes can cause tires to blow out, suspension damage, or even loss of vehicle control, especially at higher speeds.
• Shoulder drop-off. A sharp difference in elevation between the road and its shoulder can cause vehicles to lose control when drivers try to re-enter the roadway.
• Uneven pavement. Roads with uneven surfaces can cause vehicles to bounce, swerve, or lose traction, resulting in accidents or rollover incidents.
• Water pooling. Roads that don't drain properly can collect water, leading to hydroplaning and serious collisions. Poor drainage design can turn even minor rainfall into a hazardous driving condition.

These road defects pose significant risks to drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians alike. If you've been injured due to these conditions, a Prince George's County road defect lawyer can help investigate your case and fight for compensation.

Determining who is liable for a road defect accident can be complex, as it often involves government entities, contractors, or even third-party companies responsible for road maintenance. Potentially liable parties may include:

• Government entities. Local or state governments are often responsible for road maintenance. If a government entity fails to maintain roads or address known hazards, it can be held liable for any resulting accidents.
• Construction companies. When poor road design or negligence during construction leads to an unsafe driving environment, the responsible company can be held accountable for any accidents caused by their negligence.
• Private contractors. In some cases, contractors hired to maintain roads or manage road projects fail to adhere to safety standards, leading to accidents. These contractors can be found liable for injuries caused by their negligence.

Filing claims against government entities or large construction firms can be complex and require specific procedures. An experienced lawyer will help gather the necessary evidence, such as road inspection reports and maintenance logs, to establish liability and hold the responsible parties accountable.

If you or a loved one was recently hurt in a car accident and you believe that the collision was caused at least in part by a road defect, reach out to the dedicated Injury lawyers at Foran & Foran, P.A. At Foran & Foran, P.A., our Prince Charles County car accident attorneys have extensive experience pursuing claims against both drivers, corporations and government entities. We understand the Maryland sovereign immunity laws and what it will take to ensure you are fairly compensated for what you’ve been through. To learn more and to schedule a free consultation with our Prince George’s County personal injury attorney, call us at 301-441-2022. You can also connect with us through our secure online contact form. We proudly represent clients in Hyattsville, Bowie, Upper Marlboro, Waldorf, La Plata, Silver Spring, Rockville and the surrounding areas.