Who Is Liable for Pot Hole Accidents?

 Posted on December 00,0000 in Car Accidents

You might think that reckless drivers or overloaded trucks pose the biggest car accident risks on Illinois roads. However, there is a hidden hazard that causes thousands of crashes each year: potholes.

Potholes result from the buildup of water in the soil under the road. They can form almost overnight, and many are deep enough to bring a car to a dead stop. In Illinois, winter is known as pothole season due to increased rainfall.

Who Is Liable for Pothole-Related Accidents?

Potholes can cause major physical and property damage, but who is responsible for paying for these accident-related expenses? The answer is not as straightforward as you might think.

In most cases, local governments are responsible for maintaining the city’s roads, but the state of Illinois bears responsibility for some state roads. The laws that govern liability in these cases vary from city to city, and it is possible that multiple parties, including private companies, are legally responsible for the condition of the roads.

Many drivers have successfully recovered compensation for their injuries and damage to their vehicles from the Illinois government. However, it is important to note that, on average, the Illinois Department of Transport pays just five percent of its pothole claims.

Hitting a pothole can cause you to lose control of your vehicle, sending it spinning into traffic or off the side of the road. In fact, just the impact of riding into the pothole can be compared to a 35-mph collision with another car. Injuries can range from minor cuts, grazes, and bruises to severe spinal and brain injuries that may never heal.

Were You an Accident Victim?

If you were involved in an accident that a pothole caused, call an experienced Lake County car accident attorney from Salvi & Maher, LLP. We can evaluate your crash to determine all liable parties. Depending on the facts of your case, you may be entitled to compensation to pay for health-care bills and lost income. Call 847-662-3303 today to schedule a free consultation.

Source:

http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2003-05-10/news/0305100120_1_pothole-insurance-agent-claims