Drivers often assume that the roads they drive on are safe for travel. After all, government authorities generally have a responsibility to repair and maintain the roads. Unfortunately, some drivers end up in dangerous situations because the roads are not in ideal condition. Particularly when the seasons change and freezing weather leads to pothole development, infrastructure issues can lead to traffic incidents.<\/p>\n
Potholes can cause damage to the vehicles of drivers who cannot avoid them. In fact, potholes can sometimes cause collisions. Drivers can lose control of their vehicles when they bottom out in a pothole or try to skirt around one in icy conditions. Those left injured or facing major expenses after a pothole-related collision may wonder how they can cover their expenses.<\/p>\n
Do municipal authorities have liability in a scenario where a pothole is the underlying cause of a car crash?<\/p>\n
Tulsa has a reporting system in place. Citizens can help notify municipal authorities about potholes to ensure the City repairs them. In theory, prompt action is necessary when residents report potholes<\/a> large enough to damage vehicles or cause crashes.<\/p>\n However, large numbers of potholes developing at the same time and limitations on funding may result in delays in addressing significant potholes. Provided that the City was aware of the pothole before the collision occurred, the drivers involved in a crash may have grounds to hold local authorities accountable.<\/p>\n People can make claims for incidents involving one vehicle or collisions involving two or more vehicles where a pothole is to blame. Of course, claims against local government authorities can be far more complicated to navigate than simple insurance claims after motor vehicle collisions.<\/p>\n The people seeking economic justice in such scenarios may need help following the right procedures and asserting themselves to ensure they can recover their property damage and injury-related expenses.<\/p>\n