Road safety is of paramount concern to both drivers and local governments, especially when developing new roadways. Over time, roadways may become unsafe for one reason or another.
Unfortunately, several accidents may occur before local governments implement a plan to improve the safety of a dangerous section of road.
A fatal accident claims the life of two family members
According to Fox5.com, a father and son both sustained fatal injuries on a dangerous stretch of road over the weekend. While pulling out of a high school parking lot, another car collided with the side of their vehicle. The father died on the scene, while the son later succumbed to his injuries at the hospital.
Witnesses express their concern over that section of the road, stating that too many accidents occur in that area. Inadequate lighting and a lack of local police presence are just two examples witnesses give of contributing factors.
Poor road conditions may lead to governmental liability
When it comes to road maintenance it is the city, county or state’s responsibility to ensure that roads are safe. This includes things like paving, plowing and repairing other issues.
When someone dies in an accident such as the one above, surviving family members may be able to seek compensation from the appropriate authorities. To do this, the family members will need to determine which party is responsible for the cause of the accident.
Filing suits against governmental entities can be complicated, however. For these family members, it is important to start a claim as soon as possible to prove negligence.