January 17, 2024
How Do Missing Road Signs Cause Car Accidents?
Missing road signs can cause severe car accidents in many ways, such as the following:
- No stop sign: Stop signs serve a vital purpose but must be seen by drivers. Over time, they can be knocked down or fall when they become old and weakened. Vandalism and theft also play roles in missing road signs; you might not see an important yield or speed limit sign because it was not there.
- Hidden by trees: A large tree branch or other object might obstruct a road sign completely.
- Incorrect signage: Over time, some road signs are not updated as they should be to reflect changing road conditions, or a recent sign might be incorrect, indicating the wrong way on a one-way street or something similar.
Who Is Responsible for a Missing Road Sign Accident?
Determining liability can be complicated because different municipal agencies and companies might be responsible for the sign. The local Department of Transportation is involved often, but there could also be other organizations. You may have the option of suing the municipality or a company for the investigation after a completed investigation indicates that they were legally responsible for the crash.
As expected, suing a company is generally less challenging than suing a government agency. Still, either would be responsible for meeting set standards for proper signage, and those guidelines are not always followed correctly. Following the correct procedures for making a claim or filing a lawsuit is vital. Those vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction – the process generally starts with filing a Notice of Claim with the allegedly responsible party. Your car accident lawyer can help with this process.
Can I Sue for Damages?
Claim procedures vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction. Usually, you must file a Notice of Claim that puts the government on notice that you are bringing a claim against them. The date, type of accident, and accident scene location must be included.
Bear in mind that large companies and government agencies have powerful legal representation. In addition, those agencies might have immunity against claims in some instances. However you pursue your case, know that the defendant will likely challenge your claim and will look into your actions before and during the accident, your driving history, and other potential evidence.
Contact a Delaware County Car Accident Lawyer at the Law Firm of Anthony C. Gagliano III, P.C. for Legal Guidance After a Missing Road Sign Accident
If you need legal advice after a missing road sign accident, help can be found at the law firm of Anthony C. Gagliano III, P.C. A Delaware County car accident lawyer can protect your rights. Call 267-861-7100 or complete our online form for a free consultation. Located in Philadelphia and King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, we serve clients in Montgomery County, Delaware County, Bucks County, Chester County, and Norristown.