Car accidents happen every day. With millions of drivers crowding U.S. streets and highways, collisions are inevitable. In many cases, these accidents happen because drivers were not taking careful precautions. These motorists may have been distracted by their cell phones or radios, driving too quickly or even intoxicated. However, occasionally, it is not a driver’s fault but instead the condition of the road that is to blame for an auto accident.
Drivers rely on safe and well-maintained roads to get around our nation. This infrastructure provides a vital element of transportation. When roads and highways are damaged by potholes or contain unsafe matter, such as debris or oil slicks, they can pose significant dangers to drivers and may lead to an auto accident. Often drivers are unable to see the road hazard until it is too late.
When a person has been injured in such an accident, they may have a legal claim for their damages against the city, county or state. These government entities are responsible for the safety and maintenance of their roads. To determine if they were negligent, one must find out how long the dangerous condition was present and whether the government agency knew or should have known about it. With a huge network of roads and highways to maintain, it is unreasonable to expect the government to be aware of a dangerous condition the very moment it arises. However, if the problem has been present for some time and the agency has failed to take steps to correct it, they may have been legally negligent.
If you have been injured due to a dangerous condition on the road, you may be able to seek compensation from a city or state agency. To discuss your legal options, contact the knowledgeable North Carolina personal injury attorneys at Lanier Law Group, P.A.
