When we think about what contributes to car accidents, we often think of reckless drivers, poorly maintained vehicles, and inclement weather. But one thing we don’t often think about is road debris.
In much the same way that drivers have a duty to pay attention to the road, take proper care of their cars, and drive cautiously in inclement weather, they also have a duty to ensure that their cargo is properly secured to their vehicle. When these items fall off of vehicles and onto the road, it can often result in crashes. This occurs because drivers who may not see the debris from far away are forced to swerve or brake immediately in order to avoid hitting it.
According to statistics released in 2016 by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, over just four years (2011-2014), on average road debris played a role in 50,658 police-reported accidents, 9,805 injuries, and 125 fatalities annually.
Road Debris and Car Accidents
Whether a large object is in the middle of the road or falls off of the back of the vehicle in front of you, it can cause damage to you and your occupants – not to mention your vehicle. Common large objects that may result in injuries include:
- Rocks
- Logs
- Large equipment
- Furniture
- Wood/building materials
- Vehicle parts
When a driver is forced to swerve or brake immediately in order to avoid colliding with these objects, it can easily result in:
- Rear-end collisions
- Head-on collisions
- Crashes from lane departures
- Pileups/chain accidents
- Rollover accidents
Preventing Road Debris Accidents
The best way to be safe when it comes to debris accidents is to prevent debris from ending up in the roadway altogether. This is why all drivers are responsible for maintaining their vehicles, including annual inspections, and ensuring that their cargo is not overloaded but instead is properly loaded, secured, tied down, covered, etc.
I Was Injured in a Debris-related Accident: Now What?
Regardless of whoever else was responsible for the debris, you can file a claim against the driver’s insurance company if you were injured in a crash. While this can be helpful it often proves difficult since it requires driver identification. Often debris is left on the roadway with no way to tell who is responsible.
If you have no way of knowing who is responsible, it’s in your best interest to consult with a knowledgeable and experienced New Mexico personal injury attorney, who knows how to handle these often-complicated cases.
MPJ Law Firm Can Help Those in NM Who Have Been Injured in a Debris Accident
If you or a loved one has been injured in a debris accident, it can greatly impact your life. It can be difficult enough dealing with extensive injuries, but it can be even harder when you are left to pick up the pieces financially. You should never have to pay the price for someone else’s mistakes.
At MPJ Law Firm, we have a deep understanding of debris accidents and understand the affects that such accidents often have on just about all aspects of your life. We will always act in your best interest. To learn more or to schedule a free consultation, contact us today!
Posted in: Automobile Accidents