As springtime rolls into Buffalo, the weather begins to warm up, but the roads often remain in poor condition. The combination of melting snow and fluctuating temperatures wreaks havoc on the city’s infrastructure, leading to numerous potholes and damaged roadways. This often results in an increase in early spring car accidents, as drivers face hazards they may not expect. At Andrews, Bernstein & Maranto, PLLC, we understand how these conditions contribute to car accidents and how they can complicate personal injury claims. If you are injured in an accident caused by poor road conditions, it is essential to understand how to navigate the claims process and secure the compensation you deserve.
Why Potholes and Road Damage Are More Dangerous in Early Spring 
Buffalo’s climate presents unique challenges for its roads, especially in the early spring. Potholes are a significant concern, especially as they form during the freeze-thaw cycle that is typical of Buffalo’s winters. These defects become more prominent and dangerous when the snow melts, but repair work is often delayed due to fluctuating temperatures. As a result, these road hazards are more likely to cause accidents.
The increase in potholes is not the only concern, however. Other forms of road damage also contribute to a rise in early spring car accidents. Cracks, uneven surfaces, and flooding from melting snow can all catch drivers off guard. The following are just a few of the road-related hazards that contribute to accidents during this time of year:
- Potholes: The most common hazard, potholes can cause significant damage to vehicles and create dangerous driving conditions.
- Cracks and Uneven Surfaces: The freeze-thaw cycle causes the asphalt to crack and buckle, creating surfaces that can cause a driver to lose control of their vehicle.
- Flooding: As snow melts, water can accumulate in low-lying areas of the road, obscuring hazards like potholes and making it harder for drivers to maintain control.
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How Potholes Contribute to Early Spring Car Accidents in Buffalo
Potholes are a significant cause of accidents in Buffalo during the early spring. Drivers may not notice a pothole in time, especially if it is covered by water or surrounded by ice. In other cases, a driver may swerve to avoid a pothole, only to crash into another vehicle or a stationary object. According to a study by the American Automobile Association (AAA), potholes account for millions of dollars in damage each year, and they are responsible for thousands of accidents across the country, particularly in cities like Buffalo, where road conditions can be especially challenging.
There are several reasons why potholes contribute to accidents, including:
- Sudden Impact: Hitting a pothole at high speed can cause a driver to lose control of their vehicle, especially if the pothole is deep or located in an area where drivers are not expecting it.
- Swerving to Avoid Potholes: In an attempt to avoid hitting a pothole, drivers may swerve into oncoming traffic or off the road entirely, leading to serious accidents.
- Damage to Vehicles: Potholes can cause damage to tires, suspension systems, and alignment, making it more difficult for drivers to maintain control of their vehicles. A blowout caused by a pothole can lead to a serious crash.
The Legal Complexities of Injury Claims Involving Road Damage
If you are injured in a car accident caused by a pothole or road damage, it is important to understand the legal complexities involved in filing a claim. In Buffalo, the local government is responsible for maintaining roadways, but proving negligence can be challenging. In many cases, a person injured by road damage will need to navigate complex legal issues related to municipal liability.
The team is very personable, patient and empathetic with their clients. They are upfront with you and will explain the entire process with you, they never lead you to believe otherwise, they tell you like it is and will not sell you a million dollar dream. Trust in Andrews, Bernstein & Maranto, PLLC, they work for you and he looks out for your best interest.”
- Jane D.
Buffalo’s government is bound by certain standards regarding the maintenance of roadways, but the process for filing a claim against the city can be more difficult than filing a standard personal injury claim. A few key points to consider:
- Sovereign Immunity: Local governments may be protected by sovereign immunity, a legal doctrine that can limit their liability in certain situations. This means that even if poor road conditions cause an accident, the local government may argue that it is not legally responsible.
- Proving Negligence: To successfully file a claim against a government entity, it is essential to prove that the government was negligent in maintaining the road. This can be difficult, as the city may claim that the road damage was not reported or that it was repaired in a reasonable amount of time.
- Repair Delays: Even if a pothole or road defect was reported, it may take weeks or even months before it is repaired, particularly if the damage occurred during the winter months. This delay can complicate the claims process, as you will need to demonstrate that the government’s failure to act in a timely manner contributed to the accident.
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What to Do After an Accident Caused by Road Damage
If you are involved in an accident due to potholes or road damage, the first thing you should do is ensure your safety and the safety of others involved. Once you are in a safe location, follow these important steps:
- Document the Scene: Take photographs of the potholes or road defects, the surrounding area, and any damage to your vehicle. Make sure to note the exact location, date, and time of the incident.
- Call the Police: It is important to file a police report after any accident. Ensure that the officer documents the road conditions in the report, as this can serve as key evidence in your claim.
- Get Medical Attention: Even if you don’t feel injured immediately, it is important to get checked by a doctor. Injuries from car accidents can sometimes take hours or days to manifest.
- Consult with a Personal Injury Lawyer: An experienced personal injury lawyer, like those at Andrews, Bernstein & Maranto, PLLC, can help you understand your rights and navigate the complex process of filing a claim against the government or another party.
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The Role of a Personal Injury Lawyer in Road Damage Cases
In cases where road defects, like potholes, contribute to an accident, a personal injury lawyer is an invaluable resource. Not only will they help you understand the legal complexities involved, but they will also gather critical evidence and work to ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries.
At Andrews, Bernstein & Maranto, PLLC, we have extensive experience handling personal injury claims related to road damage in Buffalo. Our team will investigate the cause of your accident, work with experts to prove negligence, and fight for the compensation you deserve. This can include:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Vehicle repair costs
- Other damages related to the accident
How Andrews, Bernstein & Maranto, PLLC Can Assist You
If you have been injured in an accident caused by potholes or road damage in Buffalo, our team at Andrews, Bernstein & Maranto, PLLC is here to help. We understand how devastating these accidents can be, and we are committed to providing compassionate and effective legal representation. With our experience in handling injury claims involving road conditions, we can help you navigate the complexities of municipal liability and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you take the first step toward recovery.