Accidents happen, but our society likes to lay blame, sometimes, regardless of its accuracy. Drivers who have been involved in a single-car accident probably have firsthand experience with this phenomenon. There is a commonly held belief that if a driver gets into a crash with no other cars involved then it must be that driver’s fault. This, however, is an assumption that overlooks plenty of examples of single-vehicle accidents in Colorado where the driver was not at fault.
Colorado’s Unpredictable Weather
While poor driving habits such as driver distraction, speeding, fatigue, or intoxication frequently lead to accidents that don’t involve other vehicles, Colorado roads also have many hazards that can lead to the same accidents without the driving habits.
Longtime Colorado residents are of course very familiar with our state’s rapidly changing weather conditions. When Monday’s heavy snow becomes Tuesday’s flash flooding and is followed by high winds and hail on Saturday, drivers confront some of the most bizarre weather patterns while driving around Colorado. Even short distances become dangerous trips when heavy storms are at their most extreme. Even the most cautious drivers can find themselves in an unavoidable accident under such circumstances.
The Government’s Role
During the worst storms, and in their aftermath, we have an expectation that our municipal and state governments will work to make the roads fit to drive in a timely manner by using snow plows, deicers, and removing fallen branches/debris for example.
In addition to the immediate need for government action following a destructive storm, we expect our localities to remedy long standing issues with our roads such as severe potholes, uneven grades, severe dips, or narrow shoulders need to be promptly repaired to prevent accidents, or at the very least clearly marked so drivers are aware of them.
Additionally, potentially dangerous spots, such as sharp turns, blind turnouts, or approaching intersections must have proper signage affixed in accordance with state and local rules. This is true of natural hazards as well, such as areas that are slippery when wet or avalanche zones. Failure to alert drivers of such threats could be negligence on the part of the responsible party or locality.
If You’ve Been in a Single-Vehicle Accident
If you or a loved one has been involved in a single-vehicle accident, it’s important not to succumb to the stigma involved. Many drivers will fail to report it or seek redress because they assume that they will automatically be judged “at-fault.” When such accidents are due to the negligence of someone else, to include governmental entities, then you may be entitled to compensation for any injuries you have suffered.
Our legal team at The Bussey Law Firm, P.C., has a strong understanding of the regulations and conditions that affect Colorado drivers. Our attorneys have the necessary experience in handling car accidents and will work tirelessly to understand your case, identify who might be liable, and oversee a thorough investigation that will give you the best chance at a successful outcome. Contact us today at (719) 475-2555 to schedule a free consultation.