Two-wheelers, like motorcycles and bicycles, are particularly vulnerable to accidents because of road hazards and abrupt changes in the road surface. The reason is their smaller and thinner tires place them at greater risk. Changes in road surface which most frequently cause accidents are potholes, trolley and railroad tracks, sewer grates and disruptions of a temporary nature because of ongoing roadwork. These could be loose gravel, oil, tar, or metal or wood covers. Any of these obstructions could cause even an experienced rider to lose control and fall, at times in the path of an oncoming vehicle.
Here we take a look at common road surface hazards and who might be responsible for accidents arising from them.
Potholes are most often the result of temporary and shoddy road repair. Because they are substandard they have loose or broken edges and might even subside, creating a hazard for motorcyclists and bicyclists.
Warning Ahead?
If the accident is caused because of shoddy workmanship the public entity under whom the road comes may be held responsible unless there was sufficient warning of a hazardous situation ahead.
Another reason might be wear and tear. Whether the public agency is responsible or not depends on how long the problem has been there. If it has been there for some length of time then it presents an unreasonable danger to the public and could be construed as negligence.
An Evaluation Based on Experience
Sewer grates, rail, and trolley track present their own particular problems. Whether or not you could hold a public body responsible if they cause an accident depends on several factors which your accident lawyer can brief you about.
If you are injured because of a motorcycle or bicycle accident caused by a hazardous road surface, you might have a claim against the city, county, state, or public agency responsible for maintenance. If you are planning to file a claim, be guided by an experienced accident attorney because of the special filing requirements against public entities.
This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. This page was approved by attorney Taylor King, who opened the firm’s first office in 1994 and has been practicing law for more than 30 years.
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