When car accidents happen,
we usually tend to first believe it was due to one of the driver’s fault, but
accidents don’t always occur due to driver error. Sometimes, simply the road
may be to blame. Research has found that dangerous roadway conditions rank
among the highest of causes of car accidents. Roadways with construction
defects and design deficiency may greatly affect a driver’s experience on the
road. Even if an accident is caused due to driver error, it could be made worse
rather than be a minor accident if the road conditions are not safe. Here are
some common road hazards to be aware of:
Hazardous obstacles
Fallen trees, car parts,
debris, and potholes are the cause of many accidents and sometimes can take
drivers by surprise, making them abruptly swerve out of their lane and hit
another car. Government agencies in charge of roads have a responsibility to
remove hazardous obstacles in a timely manner.
Hazardous surfaces
Roads can become hazardous
when the pavement surface does not have sufficient skid resistance, or when
poor drainage systems cause hydroplaning or ponding.
Dangerous Intersections
Malfunctioning or confusing
traffic signs and sharp or narrow roads can triple the chance of an
intersection accident, which is already common on its own.
Insufficient traffic signals
and signage
Missing, confusing, defective,
or improper traffic signals and warning signs can cause confusion, chaos, and
accidents on roadways.
Bad construction
Roadways may weaken,
collapse, and become unsafe if they are built poorly or with any errors or with
use of poor quality materials.
If you happen to find
yourself on a hazardous road, make sure to drive carefully, especially if you
see debris or if the pavement feels uneven or bumpy.
