Hazardous road conditions can cause accidents every year across Seattle, from unmarked construction zones and inadequate guardrails to poorly designed intersections and improperly maintained roadways. When government entities and contractors fail to address these dangers, innocent people pay the price with their health, their finances, and sometimes their lives.
If you were involved in a car crash caused by poor road maintenance, it is essential to contact a Seattle dangerous road conditions attorney right away. You may have grounds for legal action—but when a government entity is involved, time is of the essence.
How Poor Road Conditions Contribute to Accidents
Defective roadways significantly increase the risk of serious accidents even for the most careful drivers. Roads should always have proper signage and a safe design, and be clear of hazards. When the government agencies responsible for maintaining these roads fail, dangerous situations arise:
Missing signs, signals, and guardrails fail to warn drivers about upcoming hazards or prevent vehicles from leaving the roadway at dangerous locations
Overgrown vegetation blocks visibility at intersections and curves, preventing drivers from seeing oncoming traffic or pedestrians
Poor intersection design creates confusion about right-of-way and increases collision risk
Deteriorating pavement forces drivers to make sudden swerves to avoid potholes, cracks, and uneven surfaces that can damage vehicles or cause loss of control
Weak bridges and overpasses may collapse or fail, leading to catastrophic accidents
Government Liability for Unsafe Roadways in Washington
Washington state law holds government entities responsible for maintaining safe roadways. Cities, counties, and the state must design, construct, and maintain roads that meet established safety standards. When they fail in this duty, they can be held liable for resulting accidents and injuries.
However, filing claims against government entities involves strict procedural requirements and significantly shorter deadlines than standard personal injury cases. This makes immediate action essential—consult with a Seattle dangerous road conditions attorney as soon as possible after your accident to initiate your claim and protect your legal rights.
Filing a Wrongful Death Claim for Dangerous Road Conditions
When unsafe road conditions lead to fatal accidents, surviving family members may have grounds for wrongful death claims. These cases seek compensation for funeral expenses, lost financial support, loss of companionship, and the profound emotional trauma of losing a loved one. The personal representative of the deceased’s estate has the right to initiate a wrongful death lawsuit on their behalf.
Wrongful death claims involving dangerous road conditions require thorough investigation and expert testimony to establish the connection between road defects and the fatal accident. Engineering experts can identify how road design or maintenance failures directly contributed to the tragedy, strengthening your case against responsible parties.
Like with personal injury claims, wrongful death actions against government entities face strict filing deadlines. Seek legal advice as soon as possible to protect your family’s right to compensation.
Get Help from a Seattle Dangerous Road Conditions Attorney Today
When hazardous road conditions cause an accident, victims often struggle to identify who bears responsibility—the city, county, state, or private entities. Malcolm Law Firm has successfully challenged governmental entities and won fair settlements for clients injured due to negligent road maintenance throughout Seattle. We will carefully investigate your accident, consult with highway safety experts, and fight for the justice you deserve. Contact us at (206) 659-9514 for a free consultation about your dangerous road condition case.
