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If you are in an accident, you might immediately look for what caused it. Causes for accidents can be anything, from drunk drivers to mechanical failure, but finding the responsible party requires careful investigation. If one or both drivers are at fault, the task becomes assigning each of them a percentage of fault. This percentage will indicate how much of the damages each driver will have to pay.
But what happens if the conditions on the road contribute to or even cause a significant accident? Who’s to blame when the accident isn’t caused by reckless driving but rather by the weather, the drivability of the roads, or the accessibility of traffic signs? Who pays the bills when you can’t blame a person?
At Zbinden & Curtis Attorneys At Law, we understand the role that road conditions play in auto accidents in Portland. In this article, we’ll try to cover every aspect of how road conditions can lead to accidents and what victims can do to receive the compensation they deserve.
If you’ve been involved in a car accident of any kind, call our Portland, OR office today.
The Impact of Road Conditions on Driving Safety
Safe driving depends on the conditions on the road. Poorly maintained roads, potholes, uneven surfaces, and a lack of traffic signs can significantly increase the risk of accidents. Additionally, environmental factors like ice, snow, or rain can make roads slippery. With Portland’s constantly changing weather patterns, safe driving can mean different things at different times.
Visibility issues caused by inadequate lighting or obstructed road signs can further contribute to the risks on the roads. It’s also important to consider the design of the road – sharp curves, steep inclines, and poorly designed intersections can all lead to accidents.
Weather and Seasonal Challenges
Different weather conditions and seasons bring different challenges to road safety. In Portland, Oregon, our frequent rain patterns can cause slippery roads, and winter brings ice and snow. Each season requires drivers to adapt their driving style and be vigilant about the road conditions. For instance, autumn leaves can make roads slick, and spring thaws can lead to flooding that creates dangerous potholes.
Construction Zones and Temporary Road Hazards
Construction zones are important for road maintenance, but they can be hazardous for drivers. Changing traffic patterns, temporary signage, and loose gravel or debris can increase the risk of an auto accident. Drivers should be cautious in these areas, follow the reduced speed limits, and be prepared for unexpected changes or delays. Reckless or unsafe driving in these locations will mean more of the blame will fall on the driver.
Vehicle Maintenance and Accident Prevention
The condition of a vehicle is also important in how it responds to poor road conditions. Regular maintenance, such as tire checks and brake inspections, will reduce the chances of an accident. Making sure your headlights are working and clear of ice or snow will help you see road hazards faster and more clearly. A well-maintained car is better equipped to handle scary road conditions, but a poorly-maintained one could give the courts another reason to put the blame on you.
Pedestrian and Cyclist Safety
Poor road conditions are not only a problem for drivers but also for people walking and biking. When sidewalks are uneven, it’s easy for someone to trip and fall. Crosswalks that aren’t well-lit make it hard for drivers to see people crossing the road, especially at night. Broken or missing signs can also be a big problem. If a stop sign is missing or hard to see, drivers might not hit the brakes in time. If these public issues aren’t addressed, the city itself may be held responsible for an accident.
Educating Drivers on Safe Driving Practices
Driver education is key to road safety. Many drivers may not be aware of how to adjust their driving to different road conditions. Providing educational resources and programs can help drivers learn to navigate safely through construction zones and bad weather.
In Portland, there are some helpful classes that teach people how to be safe on the roads. One class is the Oregon Friendly Driver program. It’s free, takes 90 minutes, and shows you how to share the road safely.
There’s also the Oregon Driver Education Center. You can take a class as a first-time driver or if you just need a little refresher. They have special classes for teenagers, and most lessons can be taken online.
Another place, 1st Learn To Drive, offers classes for both teenagers and adults. They teach you all about driving safely and how to handle different situations on the road. They even pick you up from your home, school, or work for your driving lessons.
The Legal Aspects of Road Condition Accidents
If poor road conditions have contributed to an accident, it can be difficult to hold the responsible parties accountable. In Portland, if your accident was caused by a road condition, determining fault and seeking compensation can be complicated. Oregon is a fault-based state for car accidents, meaning the responsible party must cover the damages. To prove fault, you need to show that the city breached its duty of care and caused your accident by not caring for the roads. This might involve gathering evidence like witness testimony, police reports, and medical records.
After an accident, it’s important to document everything, seek medical attention, and exchange information with any other party involved. You may need to file a claim against the government agency responsible for the road’s upkeep. However, these cases can be more complicated due to government immunity laws and the procedures for filing claims against the government. It’s important to consult with a personal injury attorney who has experience in handling cases involving government agencies to understand your options and the process for compensation.
Our Dedication to Your Cause
At Zbinden & Curtis Attorneys At Law, we are dedicated to helping those affected by auto accidents due to poor road conditions. We offer professional, understanding, and compassionate legal services to guide you through these challenging times. If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident, call us at (503) 287-5000, and let us help you seek justice.
