Sometimes you can be on your best behavior and driving as safely as possible, but a sudden and unexpected road hazard causes you to crash. If this sounds like something that happened to you, it’s important to figure out if you have legal options. Sometimes there is someone to blame for such an event, and a San Angelo, Texas car accident lawyer from our firm can help you hold that negligent party responsible.
What Kinds of Road Hazard Can Cause a Crash?
There are so many unforeseen circumstances that can contribute to a crash. Common road hazards include:
- Construction debris
- Debris from other vehicles
- Animals
- Ice and snow
- Water
- Deep potholes
- Uneven shoulders
- Other types of road damage
When Can I Sue Over a Road Hazard?
You may realize that it would be tough to sue for damages due to a road hazard like an animal, but some of these dangerous situations can be blamed on another person. If a construction company leaves debris on the road, knowing that it could cause a dangerous situation, shouldn’t it be held accountable?
The same applies to a government entity that does not properly maintain the roads. If there is extreme road damage that could cause a crash or snow and ice that doesn’t get cleaned up, isn’t that creating a more hazardous situation for everyone sharing the road?
How Long Do I Have to Pursue Damages?
So if you’re in a situation where you think that someone is to blame for the road hazard that caused your crash and your injuries, you should pursue damages. Texas gives you two years to pursue compensation, but there’s an important caveat here. This does not apply when the government is a defendant.
If you sue a government entity, like the Texas Department of Transportation, you don’t just file a lawsuit. First, you must file a notice of claim with the party you plan to sue. This must be done within six months of the accident. Then you can move forward with a lawsuit.
Whether you are suing a private company, another driver, or the government, make sure that you don’t miss any important deadlines. Otherwise, you could miss out on your chance to claim compensation for lost wages, medical expenses, and pain and suffering.
How Can a Lawyer Help?
Proving negligence in a case like this isn’t easy, but your lawyer can help you with that. An attorney can:
- Help you gather evidence
- Negotiate with insurers on your behalf
- Connect you with expert witnesses who can strengthen your case
- Prepare you for testimony or depositions
- Calculate fair compensation
- Defend you from accusations of wrongdoing
Talk to an Attorney Today
So don’t just accept that stack of medical bills that have piled up after your crash. Contact the Mathis Law Firm and ask to schedule a consultation with our team. If there’s a way to pursue a liable party for damages, we’ll find it.
