Editor's note: This post was originally published on August 4, 2023, and has been updated for accuracy and relevance.
You did everything right and still ended up in a crash. If a dangerous road was to blame, that's not bad luck. It may be negligence, and you may have the right to pursue compensation.
Louisiana roads are notoriously difficult to maintain, and when government agencies or other responsible parties fail to keep them safe, drivers pay the price. MGM Attorneys is here to help you understand your rights and fight for what you deserve.
What Types of Road Hazards Can Lead to Car Accidents?
Road defects and design failures are recognized causes of serious accidents, and Louisiana law allows injured drivers to hold the responsible parties accountable.
Common road-related hazards that can cause crashes include:
- Potholes and crumbling pavement that cause drivers to lose control
- Faded or missing lane markings that create confusion, especially at night
- Defective or absent signage that fails to warn of hazards ahead
- Dangerous intersections with poor sight lines or blind spots
- Inadequate drainage that leads to flooding or standing water on the roadway
- Debris or obstructions that weren't cleared in a timely manner
If any of these conditions contributed to your crash, the road and whoever is responsible for maintaining it may share liability for your injuries.
Who Is Liable for an Accident Caused by Road Conditions?
Liability for road defect crashes in Louisiana can fall on several parties depending on the location and cause of the hazard:
- State or local government agencies responsible for road maintenance
- Construction contractors who created a hazard during roadwork
- Property owners when a crash occurs on private roadways or parking areas
Suing a government entity in Louisiana comes with specific procedural requirements and shorter timelines than standard personal injury claims. Acting quickly is critical to preserving your claim.
What Steps Should You Take After a Road Defect Crash?
If you believe a road hazard caused or contributed to your accident, take these steps as soon as possible:
- Document the scene. Photograph the road conditions, including potholes, missing signs, and faded markings, before they are repaired.
- Get medical attention. Even if injuries seem minor, see a doctor and keep records.
- Report the hazard. File a report with the relevant government agency to create an official record.
- Do not give a recorded statement to any insurance company before consulting an attorney.
- Contact MGM Attorneys. Our team will investigate the cause of your crash, identify the responsible parties, and pursue the full compensation you're owed.
Frequently Asked Questions About Crashes Caused by Road Defects
Can I file a claim if a road defect caused my single-car accident? Yes. If a road defect, such as a pothole, missing sign, or dangerous intersection design, caused your crash, you may have a valid claim against the government agency or other party responsible for that road.
How long do I have to file a claim against a government entity in Louisiana? Claims against Louisiana state or local government agencies typically have a shorter filing window than standard personal injury claims. You should consult an attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights.
What if my insurance company says the crash was my fault? Insurance companies don't always investigate road conditions thoroughly. An experienced personal injury attorney can help gather evidence to establish that a road defect, rather than driver error, caused your accident.
Contact a Louisiana Personal Injury Attorney for Help with a Road Defect Crash
If a road defect in Louisiana caused your crash, someone failed in their responsibility to keep you safe, and you may have reason to pursue compensation.
MGM Attorneys can assist you in pursuing a claim against the negligent parties. We will investigate, build your case, and fight to hold the right parties accountable. Contact us today for a free consultation.
