Dangerous Roadways Cause More Highway Fatalities than Drunk Drivers, Study Finds
A dangerously or defectively designed or maintained roadway can result in serious auto accidents in New York causing significant injuries or even death. A new study by the Pacific Institute for Research and Evaluation shows that more than half of the highway auto accident fatalities in the United States are related to dangerous or deficient roadway conditions.
According to this news report, dangerous roadway conditions is a substantially more lethal factor than drunk driving accidents, speeding or even lack of using seatbelts. Ten roadway-related car crashes occur every minute and also contribute to 38 percent of non-fatal injuries.
There is no question that making our roadways safer is necessary to reduce highway fatalities and related costs. Safer drivers and safer cars remain important factors. However, if we place a strong focus on improving road safety conditions as we do in urging people not to drink and drive, we would save thousands of lives and billions of dollars each year. According to this study, New York ranks fifth among the top 10 states that spend the most money in crashes involving deficient roadways.
If you have been injured as a result of dangerous roadway conditions – be it potholes, uneven pavement or lack of proper signage or lighting – you would be well-advised to consult an experienced New York car accident attorney at Wingate, Russotti & Shapiro LLP who has successfully handled these types of cases. Public Roadways are maintained by governmental agencies such as cities, counties, municipalities or state authorities.
If you have been injured as a result of dangerous roadway conditions or a dangerous intersection, then the governmental agency responsible for maintaining that roadway could be held liable. Call Wingate, Russotti & Shapiro today to evaluate your claim. Any claim against a governmental agency in New York City must be filed within 90 days of the accident or injury.
