Shoulder Drop-Off

Road defects create hazardous driving conditions, and one hazardous issue is the presence of shoulder drop-offs. When the road’s edge is significantly lower than the adjacent shoulder, drivers risk losing control of their vehicles wildly if they accidentally veer off the road. Shoulder drop-offs can result in severe accidents and life-altering injuries. Foran & Foran, P.A. represents those injured by shoulder drop-offs and other road defects, including potholes, poor road design, and uneven pavement.

The dedicated attorneys at Foran & Foran will thoroughly investigate the details of the accident, identify the parties responsible for the hazardous road conditions, and fight to get you the compensation you need for your recovery. Reach out to Foran & Foran today to discuss your options and take the first step toward justice.

Shoulder drop-offs are common on highways, rural roads, and areas undergoing construction. Construction companies sometimes fail to properly maintain the road’s edge during repairs, leading to dangerous drop-offs. In other instances, natural erosion and poor road maintenance allow the shoulder to degrade over time. These drop-offs often go unnoticed by drivers until it’s too late, causing serious accidents.

Some common locations for shoulder drop-offs include the following:

• High-speed roads. Highways and major roads where vehicles travel at high speeds are especially hazardous when shoulder drop-offs occur. Sudden movements caused by a drop-off can cause drivers to lose control of their cars, leading to crashes or rollovers.
• Construction zones. Shoulder drop-offs can form in construction areas if proper road maintenance is neglected or temporary repairs are made without sufficient attention to safety.
• Rural roads. Poor maintenance or natural erosion can lead to dangerous shoulder drop-offs on less-traveled roads. These roads may also lack proper signage or guardrails, further increasing the risk.

Regardless of the location, shoulder drop-offs are dangerous, especially when paired with other road defects like uneven pavement, lack of signage, or objects on the road. A Prince George’s County lawyer can help you determine if these road defects caused your accident and pursue the compensation you deserve.

Shoulder drop-offs create dangerous driving conditions because they increase the likelihood of accidents when drivers attempt to re-enter the roadway. The sudden shift in height between the road and the shoulder can cause drivers to lose control of their vehicles. Some of the most common types of accidents caused by shoulder drop-offs include:

• Rollovers. Larger vehicles, such as trucks and SUVs, are at risk of rolling over when they encounter a shoulder drop-off. The uneven surface can cause the car to flip, leading to devastating injuries or fatalities.
• Single-vehicle accidents. Drivers who attempt to steer back onto the road after veering off onto a drop-off may lose control of their vehicle and crash into nearby objects, such as trees or guardrails.
• Multi-vehicle accidents. In some cases, a driver losing control after encountering a shoulder drop-off can collide with other vehicles on the road, resulting in multi-car crashes and severe injuries.

These accidents are often preventable if the responsible parties take the necessary steps to repair and maintain the road. When they fail to do so, victims of shoulder drop-off accidents have the right to hold them accountable.

Shoulder drop-off accidents can lead to complicated legal battles, especially when government entities or construction companies are involved. Proving that the shoulder drop-off caused the accident requires a thorough investigation, including evidence such as road maintenance records, photographs of the accident site, and expert testimony.

A skilled Prince George’s County road defect lawyer can build a strong case by investigating the accident, gathering evidence such as photos and road maintenance reports, and determining liability, which often falls on government entities or contractors. Your attorney will file your claim within the necessary timeframe, ensuring all legal steps are followed, and negotiate with insurers to secure fair compensation for your injuries. Shoulder drop-off accidents can cause severe injuries like traumatic brain injuries and broken bones. Foran & Foran is dedicated to helping you recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Road defects can cause serious accidents, but the team at Foran & Foran, P.A. is ready to stand by your side. Our experienced Prince George’s County car accident lawyers can investigate the circumstances of your accident and fight for the compensation you deserve. Call 301-441-2022 or use our secure online contact form to schedule your free consultation today. We proudly represent clients in Hyattsville, Bowie, Upper Marlboro, Waldorf, La Plata, Silver Spring, Rockville and the surrounding areas.