Uneven Pavement

Road defects are a serious issue, and uneven pavement is one of the most common hazards drivers face on a regular basis. This seemingly minor road flaw can lead to significant accidents, causing damage to vehicles and injuries to drivers and passengers. Uneven pavement may result from poor construction practices, lack of maintenance, or natural wear and tear. Unfortunately, broken or uneven roads can create dangerous conditions and often lead to accidents.

Securing legal representation is crucial if uneven pavement in Prince George's County caused your accident. At Foran & Foran, we focus on helping those affected by hazardous road defects, including uneven pavement, potholes, shoulder drop-offs, and faulty road design. Our dedicated attorneys are here to fight for the compensation you deserve. Reach out to our Prince George’s County car accident lawyers to discuss your case and find out how we can assist you in recovering from your injuries.

Uneven pavement can occur for several reasons, but it often results from road construction or maintenance neglect. Some of the common causes include:

• Construction negligence. When construction companies don't properly grade or smooth a road, and uneven surfaces pose a risk to drivers. Construction negligence can also occur when temporary repairs are made without long-term safety measures, leading to unevenness as the road continues to degrade.
• Natural erosion. Weather conditions, such as heavy rain or freezing temperatures, can wear away parts of the road, creating uneven surfaces. Without proper drainage, water can seep into cracks, eroding the ground beneath the pavement and leading to uneven roadways.
• Heavy traffic and overuse: Roads that bear the weight of heavy trucks and constant traffic can deteriorate faster, causing dips, bumps, and uneven surfaces. Over time, the wear and tear lead to serious road hazards that require urgent repair.

Whether caused by poor construction or environmental factors, uneven pavement creates an unstable driving surface, leading to significant damage and dangerous accidents.

Uneven pavement can cause various problems for drivers, affecting everything from vehicle control to physical damage. Some of the common dangers include:

• Loss of control. Driving over uneven pavement can cause drivers to lose control, especially at higher speeds. Sudden jolts or changes in the road surface can make it difficult for the driver to steer properly, leading to accidents.
• Tire and suspension damage. Uneven surfaces can wear down tires faster, leading to blowouts or flat tires. The constant impact of driving on rough terrain can also damage a vehicle's suspension system, resulting in costly repairs.
• Accidents involving multiple vehicles. Drivers who swerve or brake suddenly to avoid uneven pavement can cause rear-end collisions or multi-car pileups, especially on busy highways.

These issues highlight why proper road maintenance is critical for keeping drivers safe. In cases where uneven pavement leads to serious accidents, holding the responsible parties accountable for their negligence is essential.

While uneven pavement is hazardous, certain factors can make these road defects even more dangerous. Some of the most significant contributors include:

• Weather conditions. Rain, snow, and ice can make uneven pavement even harder to navigate. Wet or icy roads reduce traction, increasing the likelihood of accidents when drivers encounter unexpected bumps or dips.
• Poor road design. Uneven pavement is especially dangerous when combined with poor road design. For example, a road with sharp curves or steep inclines may become even more treacherous if the surface is uneven, causing vehicles to lose control.
• Lack of signage. Drivers rely on proper signage to navigate changing road conditions. When signs are missing or inadequate, they may not be warned about uneven pavement ahead, leaving them unprepared for the sudden changes in the road's surface.

Each of these factors increases the risk of accidents, making it crucial for local governments and construction companies to prioritize road safety through regular maintenance and repairs.

Were you or a loved one injured in a car accident due to a road defect? The knowledgeable attorneys at Foran & Foran, P.A. are here to help. We have a proven track record of holding negligent drivers, corporations, and government entities accountable. Contact our office at 301-441-2022 to schedule a free consultation or use our online contact form. We proudly represent clients in Hyattsville, Bowie, Upper Marlboro, Waldorf, La Plata, Silver Spring, Rockville and the surrounding areas.