The Dangers of Potholes in Ohio
A pothole is a hole in the road caused by water under the pavement. The water freezing and unfreezing causes the pavement to bend and crack, especially as heavy vehicles drive over the weak spots. As Ohio sees cold weather in the winter and fluctuating temperatures in the early spring, potholes can be found on many of the state’s roads. Unfortunately, potholes can be a serious hazard to motorists and vehicle occupants, as some are large enough to cause car accidents in Ohio.
Accidents Caused by Potholes in Ohio
When a vehicle hits a pothole, it can sustain expensive damage. It may require vehicle parts such as the following to be repaired or replaced:
- Tires
- Rims
- Brake discs
- Shock absorbers
- Suspension parts
- Axles
- Vehicle frames
Replacing important structural components of a vehicle can be costly. In addition to vehicle damage, hitting a pothole can cause a car accident if the shock of the impact causes the driver to lose control of the vehicle. A driver can also lose control if hitting a pothole causes vehicle damage, such as a tire blowout.
Motorcycle operators are especially at risk for an accident if they hit a pothole. Even a minor pothole can cause a motorcyclist to lose balance and wipe out.
Did You Know You Can File a Claim For Compensation for Damages from Potholes in Ohio?
If you suffer vehicle damage or are injured in an accident caused by a pothole, you may be entitled to seek financial compensation. Most insurance companies will consider hitting a pothole a single-vehicle accident. Your auto insurance may cover the costs of vehicle repairs if you have collision insurance.
A government entity could also be liable for a pothole accident if it was aware of a dangerous pothole and failed to address it. However, you’ll have to provide evidence of the government’s negligence to receive compensation.
An Ohio car accident lawyer can review your case and determine if the government can be held responsible for your injuries and losses. They can also help you identify the liable agencies, collect proof, and file a claim for your pothole accident.
How to Report a Pothole for Repairs in Ohio
The Ohio Department of Transportation has a website for reporting potholes and other roadway defects on interstates, U.S. routes, and state routes in Ohio. You can also report damage caused by a pothole or road defect.
Pothole repair requests must be submitted to the local municipality for local roads and streets, such as a county or city transportation or public works department.
Contact Our Lawyers Today for Help with Your Ohio Pothole Claim
If a pothole caused you to suffer severe injuries and significant property damage in Ohio, turn to Amourgis & Associates, Attorneys at Law for help. Our Ohio personal injury lawyer will provide you with a free consultation to discuss your accident and legal options. Call us or reach out to us online now.
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At Amourgis & Associates, Attorneys at Law, we only represent consumers. We fight for regular people who have been seriously hurt in accidents. We fight for people who are being crushed by overwhelming debt and need a fresh start. We fight for individuals and families. Never businesses. Never insurance companies. We are loyal to the consumer.
