The United States prides itself on having an extensive interstate network, spanning 4.2 million miles of roads. But beneath this impressive infrastructure lies a hidden problem: a staggering $786 billion in needed road repairs, according to the American Society of Civil Engineers. As a result of deteriorating roads and bridges, American drivers are shelling out an extra $130 billion each year for vehicle repairs and higher fuel costs.
In Ohio, the road conditions have taken a significant hit over the last two decades. In 2000, over 96% of Ohio’s roads were considered “acceptable” based on federal standards, which measure road smoothness and the amount of vibration absorbed by a vehicle’s suspension. Fast forward to 2020, and that number has dropped to just 83.69%.
In cities like Cleveland, which ranks sixth in the nation for poorly maintained roads, the costs to drivers are even higher. On average, Cleveland residents pay an additional $887 per year for vehicle maintenance due to rough roads.
This steady decline in road quality isn’t just a financial burden—it’s also a safety issue. Roads in poor condition increase the risk of accidents, which can lead to severe injuries or even fatalities. For drivers in Ohio, understanding how these dangerous roads could affect their legal rights in the event of a car accident is crucial.
The Impact of Poor Road Conditions on Car Accidents
The condition of the road you’re driving on can significantly impact the likelihood of a car accident. Potholes, uneven surfaces, and cracks in the pavement can cause drivers to lose control of their vehicles, potentially leading to rear-end collisions, tire blowouts, or single-car accidents. Roads with IRI (International Roughness Index) values above 170, which are classified as being in poor condition, make it more challenging for drivers to maintain control, especially in bad weather or at higher speeds.
Unfortunately, Ohio’s decline in road quality means drivers face greater risks every time they get behind the wheel. But beyond the increased risk of an accident, poor road conditions can also complicate your ability to file a successful car accident claim.
Who’s Liable in a Car Accident Caused by Poor Roads?
In most car accidents, liability is determined by looking at the behavior of the drivers involved. However, if poor road conditions were a factor, you may also have a claim against the government entity responsible for maintaining the road. This could include the city, county, or state government in charge of road repairs and maintenance.
Filing a claim against a government entity in Ohio is different from a standard car accident claim. You’ll need to prove that the road’s poor condition directly caused the accident and that the government agency responsible for the road either knew about the issue or should have known about it but failed to take reasonable steps to fix it. You’ll also need to act quickly, as Ohio has strict deadlines, known as statutes of limitations, for filing claims against government entities.
What to Do After a Car Accident Involving Poor Road Conditions
If you’ve been in a car accident caused by poor road conditions, there are a few important steps to take:
- Document the Scene: Take photos of the road conditions, your vehicle damage, and any injuries you sustained. If the road had potholes, cracks, or uneven surfaces, make sure to capture clear images.
- Report the Accident: Contact local authorities to file a police report. The report will be crucial if you decide to pursue a claim for damages later.
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s important to get checked by a medical professional. Some injuries, like whiplash, may not be immediately apparent but could worsen over time.
- Consult a Car Accident Lawyer: Given the complexity of filing a claim involving poor road conditions, working with an experienced Ohio car accident attorney is essential. A lawyer can help you gather the evidence needed to prove that the government agency responsible for the road was negligent in maintaining it.
The Importance of Working with an Experienced Ohio Car Accident Lawyer
Navigating the legal landscape after a car accident is challenging enough. But when poor road conditions are involved, it can be even more complicated. Liability can be harder to establish, and you’ll be up against government entities that often have legal protections in place. That’s why having a skilled car accident lawyer on your side is so important.
An experienced Ohio car accident attorney can help you build a strong case by:
- Investigating the road conditions and gathering evidence to show that the road’s poor state caused the accident
- Filing the necessary paperwork to pursue a claim against a government entity, ensuring all deadlines are met
- Negotiating with insurance companies and government representatives to get you the compensation you deserve for medical bills, vehicle repairs, lost wages, and pain and suffering
Conclusion
Ohio’s declining road conditions pose a serious threat to driver safety. If you’ve been involved in a car accident due to poor infrastructure, it’s essential to understand your legal options. With the help of an experienced car accident lawyer, you can pursue compensation not only from other drivers but also from the government entities responsible for keeping Ohio’s roads safe.
Don’t let poor road conditions cost you more than they already have—reach out to a qualified Ohio car accident attorney today to learn how you can protect your rights and recover the compensation you deserve.