If you’ve ever felt your bike lose traction unexpectedly, you know how quickly a routine ride can turn into a serious crash. The attorneys at Brown & Brown, LLP, also understand these risks and have spent more than 30 years helping injured riders in St. Louis and Illinois pursue justice and compensation.
In this blog, you’ll learn how road hazards and inadequate maintenance contribute to motorcycle accidents, who may be responsible, and what steps you can take if you’ve been hurt.
Common Road Hazards That Cause Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycles are far more sensitive to road conditions than cars. Even minor issues can have a major impact. Some of the most common dangers include:
- Potholes and uneven pavement that can destabilize a bike
- Loose gravel or debris that reduces tire traction
- Wet or slick surfaces, especially after rain or oil spills
- Construction zones with unclear markings or sudden lane changes
- Poorly designed roads with sharp curves or inadequate signage
How Poor Road Maintenance Plays a Role
When roads aren’t properly maintained, hazards can go from inconvenient to dangerous. Government agencies and municipalities are typically responsible for keeping roads safe. This includes:
- Repairing potholes in a timely manner
- Clearing debris and maintaining drainage systems
- Posting proper warning signs for construction or hazards
Failure to address these issues could be considered negligence. In some motorcycle accident cases, this opens the door to claims against a city, county, or other entity.
Who Is Liable When Motorcycle Accidents Are Caused by Hazards?
Determining fault in motorcycle crashes involving road hazards can be complex. Liability may fall on:
- A government agency responsible for road upkeep
- A construction company that left unsafe conditions behind
- A third party that created the problem (such as spilled cargo)
An experienced attorney like those at Brown & Brown, LLP, can build a strong case by investigating maintenance records, accident reports, and witness statements.
Get Legal Support After a Motorcycle Accident
Road hazards and poor maintenance can leave lasting physical, emotional, and financial effects. Understanding your rights is the first step toward recovery, but you don’t have to handle the process alone.
If you were injured in a motorcycle accident, call Brown & Brown, LLP, today at 314-333-3333 or 573-333-3333 in St. Louis, or 618-888-8888 in Illinois to schedule a case review.
