Poor Road Design

Road design and safety have improved greatly in the past several decades, but sometimes mistakes still occur. The hazard is often not in plain sight, and there is a flaw somewhere in the design of the road. Car accidents caused by poor road design tend to be extremely dangerous for drivers and often result in serious injuries to the driver and passengers. These injuries range from broken bones, internal bleeding, paralysis, and brain damage to death. These accidents are difficult to prevent because the hazard goes unnoticed until a fatality occurs.

How These Accidents Occur

There are many instances in which the design of a road may be flawed. For example, as you exit an interstate, a ramp that is too short or is improperly placed can create a dangerous scenario for a driver who is likely unaware of these details. In North Charlotte, there is a ramp that merges I-85 South onto I-77 South that has proven to be very dangerous for drivers. The ramp bends to the left and, after turning, the drivers are off I-85 and on I-77. This spot is especially tough for truck drivers because vehicles are susceptible to turning over if they are traveling too fast. This ramp has caused several rollover accidents in the past few years.

The shoulder on roadways is intended to allow a safe area for drivers if they have to pull over. Shoulders require a certain amount of space to allow the driver to safely exit the vehicle and avoid being hit by another vehicle. Improper shoulder design can cause dangerous accidents if there is not enough space for the driver to exit in an emergency.

Other dangerous design flaws include median barriers that are improperly situated, confusing or missing road signs, lack of traffic signals or poor placement of such signals, and poor landscaping that obstructs a driver’s vision. These accidents can take many forms and may involve a unique facts that are best handled by an lawyer who has experience with car accidents.

Most individuals who have been a victim of an accident do not know how the law works or what rights they have to be able to recover. We understand that a situation like this can be stressful and overwhelming. If you or a loved one have been injured by the negligence of another person, you have a right to recovery for the bodily injury and damage to your property and for other damages such as lost wages and pain and suffering. Because car accidents can be complicated, you need an lawyer to handle your case.

Contact an Experienced North Carolina and South Carolina Lawyer

At The Tatum Law Firm, you will feel at ease by knowing that our legal team will work tirelessly to provide an outcome that is satisfactory for your case. Lawyer Brian Steed Tatum will carefully review the facts of your case and provide you with the best pathway to recovery. We understand that you need compensation fast. For a free consultation, please contact us at (704) 307-4350.