Scranton Guardrail Accident Lawyer
While traveling on the highway, you may see guardrails on the side of the road. Guardrails may seem insignificant to many motorists, but they are actually quite useful. In fact, they are used for safety purposes. They are often used to separate the highway and protect motorists from going off the road.
Guardrails can also help prevent collisions between two motor vehicles. They can stop one of the vehicles from swerving into an oncoming lane. They can also keep motorists from hitting trees, buildings, and other obstacles. They can also separate traffic from the edge of the road so vehicles avoid going down steep or dangerous terrain. In short, they serve as barriers to prevent collisions.
However, guardrails can sometimes cause more harm than good. Some guardrails do not always function as intended. This is especially true if the guardrail is not current. Outdated technology and materials can make guardrails dangerous.
A car accident with an ineffective or defective guardrail can result in serious injuries to those involved. File a claim with a Scranton guardrail accident lawyer from Needle Law Firm today to get the compensation you deserve.
When Guardrails Are Defective
When guardrails are hit, they are supposed to absorb the impact and slow down a vehicle. This is a concept known as “telescoping.” However, a guardrail that has a design, installation, or manufacturing flaw may not telescope upon impact. Instead, a defective guardrail can split or break. This can cause a dangerous situation in which the metal from the guardrail actually impales the vehicle. When a guardrail penetrates a car, occupants can suffer catastrophic and even fatal injuries.
Improper installation of guardrails can also lead to accidents. For instance, a construction company may fail to install a guardrail to the proper specifications. This can have serious consequences for drivers who hit the guardrail.
Who is Liable?
If a guardrail creates a hazard, impales a vehicle, or causes unnecessary damage to a vehicle, it is likely defective. Even a minor defect in a guardrail’s design could have devastating consequences for drivers and passengers.
In these cases, multiple parties may be at fault. They may include the manufacturer or designer that produced the defective guardrail. Potentially liable parties may include the guardrail design company, the manufacturing company, or the construction company that installed the guardrails. In some cases, a government body could be held liable as well. Contact a lawyer to discuss your case and understand your legal options.
Contact Needle Law Firm Today
Guardrails are supposed to be a safety measure to protect motorists. When they do not work as intended, they can result in serious accidents.
There are multiple parties who may be held liable for a guardrail accident. If you have suffered injuries due to one, make sure you get the compensation you deserve. The Scranton guardrail accident lawyers at Needle Law Firm can help you file a claim. Schedule a free consultation by filling out the online form or calling (570) 344-1266.
