Lack of Signs and Car Accident Risks
Whenever we drive on the road, we rely on signs to notify us of road conditions and warn us of hazards. Signs provide us with all sorts of cues and information on a daily basis, including when to stop or yield, and whether to change lanes, slow down, detour, or otherwise adjust our driving. When signs are not properly posted and readable, however, drivers are left uninformed, which can lead to a serious accident. If you or someone you love has been injured in a car accident caused by a lack of signs, it may be in your best interest to consult with a road defects lawyer about your case.
What Signs Tell Us
Road signs provide us with a multitude of information every time we are on the road, whether we are aware of it or not. From them we learn what the speed limit is and what intersection is coming up next. We can also glean information about road hazards or changing road conditions, such as:
Sharp turns or steep grades
Roads vulnerable to ice buildup or flooding
Low bridges
Lane closures, construction, or detours
Reduced speed zones
Falling rock or erosion risks
This is just a sampling of information that may appear on road signs that help us to make safe driving decisions each day. When the proper signage is not posted where it is needed, drivers may not know to watch for a certain hazard or adjust their driving, and they may be injured in a severe accident.
Injury Compensation
If you have been hurt in an accident because your were not informed of a certain road condition or hazard, someone may be liable for your injuries and damages and you may be entitled to compensation. The city or municipality responsible for posting signs may be held accountable in court and you may receive payment for your accident-related costs, including compensation for your medical bills, lost wages from time off of work, repair costs, recovery expenses, and pain and suffering.
