Who Is Liable When Road Hazards Cause a Car Accident?
Many California roads have defects that make them challenging and dangerous to drivers. Even when drivers employ defensive and safe driving habits, road hazards such as debris, weather, improper roadway lighting, and others may be uncontrollable factors that lead to a car accident. In some instances, road hazards are the result of a negligent driver or entity, and you may be able to seek compensatory damages for injuries, property damage, medical expenses, and other losses you have experienced due to their careless actions.
At Younglove Law Group, we are an experienced team of award-winning Newport Beach car accident lawyers committed to securing the compensation our clients deserve in instances of negligence. We provide aggressive and strategic legal advocacy to fight on your behalf so you may recover the compensation you deserve and focus on recovery.
Who Is Liable for Car Accidents Caused by Road Hazards?
California is a fault-based state, which means all parties that contributed to your car accident may be held responsible for the losses you incurred due to your accident. You may file a road hazard car accident injury claim against any liable parties whose actions directly contributed to your injuries.
The potentially liable parties in a road hazard accident claim may include:
- Highway and interstate maintenance crews
- Construction businesses
- Private business owners
- Government entities
- Third-party drivers
To evaluate which party is responsible for your injuries and other losses, speak to an experienced car accident lawyer at Younglove Law Group. We will conduct a comprehensive investigation into your accident, determine liability, initiate negotiations, and build a solid claim on your behalf.
Special Rules and Procedures for Government Liability
Government entities have a clear responsibility to develop and maintain the safety of public roads. State and local governments are authorities in the upkeep of dangerous road conditions, and when an entity causes an accident due to negligence, they should be held responsible for the damages they have caused as a result.
Although you have a right to file a claim against the government, there are special rules and procedures you must follow. For instance, California’s Tort Claims Act requires that you file claim forms with the public entity involved in your claim within 6 months of the date of the incident. There are some rules that are beneficial, however. For instance, you can file a claim directly with the California Department of Transportation if your claim value is $10,000 or less without paying any filing fee. In order to file correctly and in a timely manner, speak to an experienced California car accident for legal guidance surrounding your claim.
What Damages Are Recoverable in a California Car Accident Caused by Road Hazards?
In California car accidents caused by road hazards, claims may be complex, and it is imperative to retain the help of a skilled car accident lawyer at Younglove Law Group for experienced guidance. We handle all aspects of your claim, including conducting a thorough investigation of your accident and obtaining valuable evidence to prove liability.
The following are damages you may be able to recover in a car accident caused by road hazards:
- Property damage, including vehicle repairs
- Emergency room treatments
- Medical expenses
- Present and future lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Permanent disability, scarring, or impairment
- Wrongful death of a family member
- Punitive damages
Speak to a skilled California car accident lawyer with years of experience handling complex road hazard accident claims for victims impacted by negligence. At Younglove Law Group, we have recovered over 40 million dollars in settlements and jury verdicts for clients who have endured significant losses due to injustice.
Speak With an Experienced Car Accident Lawyer at Younglove Law Group
If you have been significantly injured in a road hazard car accident due to a negligent individual or government entity, speak to the experienced car accident lawyers at Younglove Law Group. We provide legal representation with an individualized and human approach, dedicated to achieving a favorable outcome for you so you may focus on recovery.
At Younglove Law Group, our award-winning, compassionate legal team are fierce advocates for our clients in pursuit of fair, maximum compensation for the suffering they have endured. Call us today for a complimentary consultation at (949) 691-3660, or fill out our contact form.
