Did you get hurt in a vehicle accident caused by defective or poorly maintained roads? Managing the consequences of an accident can be overwhelming, especially when you know it was preventable. The good news is that you could be entitled to compensation for road defect accident injuries, medical bills, lost wages, and more.
At Sumner Law Group, LLC, we can help you understand your legal rights and fight for the money you deserve. We have the experience and determination to take on powerful insurance companies and the parties responsible for the accident. Contact us today for a free consultation to learn how we can help you demand the justice and compensation you need to move forward.
Reasons to Choose Our Lawyers After a Road Hazard Crash
If you suffered injuries in a St. Louis road defect accident, you need a law firm that stands up to powerful insurance companies and fights for results that count. The car accident attorneys at Sumner Law Group, LLC have over 50 years of combined experience and a reputation for not backing down. We know what it takes to win and have secured numerous multi-million-dollar verdicts and settlements for our clients.
We pride ourselves on direct communication. When you come to us for help, you will always speak with your car accident attorney, not a paralegal or assistant. We can meet with you anytime, anywhere, and offer free consultations. Our proven trial attorneys know what it takes to secure maximum compensation for road defect accidents. Choose Sumner Law Group, LLC, for tough, effective legal representation in St. Louis.
Common Types of Road Defects in St. Louis and How They Cause Wrecks
Road defects are a serious issue in St. Louis, leading to numerous accidents and injuries each year. Common examples of road hazards include:
- Potholes – A pothole develops when water seeps into cracks in the road, freezing and expanding, then melting and contracting. This process breaks apart the pavement, creating holes. Drivers who hit potholes can lose control, resulting in crashes, tire blowouts, or suspension damage.
- Uneven surfaces – Roads can become rough or patchy due to poor construction, weather conditions, or heavy traffic. Uneven surfaces make it challenging for drivers to maintain control, especially at high speeds. This can lead to vehicles veering off the road or into other lanes and colliding with other cars.
- Faded or missing markings – Clear road markings are essential for safe driving, especially at night or in poor weather. Faded or missing lines, arrows, or signs can confuse drivers, leading to crashes due to lane departures or failure to yield, among other things.
- Inadequate signage – Proper signage warns drivers of upcoming hazards, changes in road conditions, and traffic rules. Missing, obscured, or incorrect signs can leave drivers unaware of dangers such as sharp turns, pedestrian crossings, or construction zones, increasing the risk of collisions.
- Debris – Tree branches, construction materials, or litter can obstruct the road. Drivers may swerve to avoid unexpected debris and crash into neighboring vehicles, causing injuries to everyone nearby. Debris can also damage tires, leading to blowouts and loss of control.
Drivers hurt due to an unsafe road condition could have grounds for a personal injury lawsuit. Consulting a St. Louis road hazard lawyer can help you understand your legal options if you’ve been hurt.
Liability for Accidents Caused by Road Defects
Determining liability for road defect accidents involves identifying who is responsible for road maintenance. This duty usually falls on government entities such as city, county, or state agencies. These entities must ensure roads are safe for drivers by regularly inspecting and repairing any defects.
If you suffer injuries in an accident due to a road defect, you might have a claim against the responsible government entity. To succeed, you must prove that the agency knew (or should have known) about the defect and failed to fix it in a reasonable time.
In some cases, you could also have a claim against another driver if their actions contributed to the crash. All Missouri motorists are responsible for driving safely at all times. Someone else could be at fault if they failed to drive safely or react appropriately to an unsafe road condition. You need an experienced highway defect attorney to investigate the case, determine all liable parties, and gather the evidence necessary for a solid car accident claim.
The Legal Process for Road Defect Accident Claims in St. Louis
It’s essential to understand that claims against government agencies work differently than the average car accident case in Missouri. For example, you have just 90 days to file a car accident claim against a state agency for a road hazard claim versus a five-year time limit for most other personal injury cases. This deadline makes it crucial for you to contact a car accident attorney right away to get the legal process started.
The St. Louis road defect accident attorneys from Sumner Law Group, LLC will work quickly to investigate your case and file your claim on time. We will:
- Identify which government entity or party is responsible for the road defect crash
- Gather substantial evidence supporting your injury claim
- Provide a notice of claim to the relevant government agency and any other liable parties
- Build and file a claim with all necessary documents and evidence against the appropriate government agency or insurance company
- Negotiate with insurers and defense lawyers in pursuit of a full and fair settlement for your medical expenses, lost wages, and other losses.
- Prepare your case for trial, represent you in all court proceedings, and argue for a favorable verdict for you
Gathering Evidence for a Road Defect Accident Case
Proving negligent road maintenance requires gathering compelling evidence to support your car accident case. An experienced road defect accident attorney will collect various types of evidence to demonstrate the hazard caused the crash and your injuries. Examples of potential evidence include:
- Photographs
- Witness statements
- Police reports
- Medical records
- Accident reconstruction reports
- Road maintenance records
- Expert testimony
- Surveillance footage
- Vehicle damage reports
- Weather reports
- Past traffic collision reports
- Government inspection records
- Road design plans
- Dashcam footage
- Tire tread analysis
How Our Attorneys Help People Hurt by Defective Roadways
If you sustained injuries on a St. Louis roadway, the experienced car accident attorneys at Sumner Law Group, LLC, are ready to help. Our dedicated lawyers will fight for your rights and demand maximum compensation for your losses. Contact us today for a free consultation.
