We trust that the highways and streets we travel are properly designed, well-maintained, and free from hazards that could put our lives at risk. Yet far too often, dangerous road conditions threaten the well-being of drivers, passengers, and pedestrians across Texas. If you were injured due to a road defect, you may have grounds for legal action—but because these claims often involve government entities and other high-powered defendants, it is important to work with a McAllen car accident lawyer who can fight for your right to compensation.
Types of Road Hazards That Cause Accidents
Texas drivers encounter numerous roadway defects that can lead to serious crashes and injuries. While some hazards are immediately visible, others remain hidden until it becomes impossible to avoid them.
These may include:
- Flawed Road Design: Poor engineering decisions can put drivers at risk every time they travel certain routes. These may include dangerously sharp curves without proper banking or warning signs or inadequate drainage systems that cause flooding.
- Inadequate Signage: Missing stop signs, yield signs, or warning signs about upcoming hazards leave drivers unprepared for dangerous conditions ahead.
- Poor Road Maintenance: Maintenance issues like potholes, road debris, and broken or missing guardrails pose serious risks. These hazards often develop gradually but can cause catastrophic accidents when left unaddressed.
- Malfunctioning Signals: Traffic lights that display conflicting signals or fail to work at all can create dangerous confusion at busy intersections.
Potential Liability for Defective or Dangerous Roads in Texas
After a crash caused by defective or dangerous roads in Texas, you might wonder who bears responsibility for your injuries and damages. The answer often depends on where your accident occurred and who maintains that particular road. If you were injured on a public road, a government entity—whether city, county, or state—is likely responsible.
However, government agencies aren’t the only potentially responsible parties. Private contractors hired for road design, construction, or maintenance could share the blame if their work contributed to your accident. If your accident happened on a private road or in a parking lot, your claim might be against the property owner or the company responsible for maintaining that property.
Special Rules for Claims Against the Government
A claim against a government entity differs from cases that involve individual drivers or private companies. The Texas Tort Claims Act allows you to seek compensation from government agencies, but it sets strict guidelines you must follow.
For example, you must notify the government entity about your accident within six months. Some local governments require notice in as little as 45 or 90 days. Additionally, you can only recover certain amounts of compensation. Claims against state government agencies are capped at $250,000 per person, while local government claims are capped at $100,000.
A personal injury attorney in McAllen can help you navigate these requirements and ensure that you comply with all applicable procedures. They can notify the appropriate departments on time, properly document your injuries and damages, and build a compelling case for your maximum compensation.
Schedule Your Free Legal Consultation Today
When hazardous road conditions cause an accident, determining liability and securing compensation can be incredibly complex. De La Garza Law Firm has extensive experience holding government entities and other parties accountable for dangerous road conditions that harm Texas drivers. Contact us at (956) 533-1426 for a free consultation and learn how we can help you secure the justice and compensation you deserve.
