When a road is under construction or has large divots due to overuse, the pavement between or even within lanes may become uneven. Uneven pavement refers to varying lane heights on the same road. For instance, one lane may be two or three inches taller than the lane next to it.
While uneven roads usually are not a problem if drivers slow down to account for the abnormality, drivers who receive no warning of the uneven pavement may be put in danger when they drive on affected roads.
The dangers of uneven pavement are most apparent when a driver goes from a lane of lower height to one of a greater height. If the driver is not careful, he or she may be subjected to a number of outcomes, such as:
- Vehicle rollovers
- Catastrophic tire blowout
- Loss of vehicular control
Each of these outcomes may subject drivers and their passengers to further dangers. Additionally, individuals may be at a greater risk for colliding with fellow drivers or veering off of the road when they lose control of their vehicles.
While uneven pavement resulting from construction is usually resolved in time, uneven pavement resulting from road overuse may be allowed to exist for months or even years.
In either case, the local government or municipality in charge or road maintenance is responsible for taking some sort of action to ensure drivers’ safety, whether that means posting warning signs or getting the road repaired.
Drivers and vehicle occupants who suffer injuries because of road defects such as uneven pavement may be entitled to financial compensation for their injuries. Individuals wishing to pursue compensation should consult with an experienced road defects lawyer for more information.
If you or someone you love suffered injuries in an accident stemming from a roadway defect, discuss your legal rights and options with the Milwaukee road defects attorneys of Habush Habush & Rottier, S.C.