Injured or Your Car Damaged Due to a Pothole? Here’s What You Need to Know
Potholes and road damage are more than just an inconvenience—they can cause serious car accidents, severe injuries, and costly vehicle repairs. If you’ve suffered damage or injury due to unsafe road conditions, you may be wondering who is responsible for covering your losses. You may wonder, can you sue the city for potholes? The good news is that you may have legal options to recover compensation.
At The Moran Law Group, we help drivers, passengers, and pedestrians seek justice after accidents caused by poorly maintained roads. Our experienced personal injury attorneys in Scranton can guide you through the legal process, helping you hold negligent municipalities, contractors, or other responsible parties accountable.
If a pothole or road defect caused your accident, don’t wait—contact us today for a free consultation.
Who Is Responsible for Road Maintenance in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania law requires state and local agencies to maintain safe road conditions for drivers. This includes fixing potholes, repairing uneven pavement, and addressing other hazards that could lead to accidents. However, determining liability for road-related accidents can be complex, as different entities may be responsible for different roadways:
- Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) is responsible for maintaining state highways.
- Local municipalities and townships handle city streets and county roads.
- Private property owners are responsible for roads in private communities, parking lots, and certain commercial spaces.
- Construction companies and contractors working on road repairs may be liable if their negligence created a hazardous condition.
If you were injured or your car was damaged due to a pothole or unsafe road conditions, a personal injury attorney in Scranton can investigate your case and determine who may be liable for your damages.
Common Accidents and Injuries Caused by Potholes and Road Defects
Potholes, cracks, and other road hazards can lead to dangerous accidents, especially when drivers have little time to react. Common scenarios include:
1. Vehicle Damage
Hitting a pothole at high speed or swerving to avoid one can cause significant vehicle damage, including:
- Bent or cracked wheels
- Blown tires
- Suspension or alignment damage
- Underbody damage
Repairs can be expensive, and if a government entity or private party was responsible for the road’s poor condition, you may be able to recover these costs.
2. Car Accidents
Potholes and road damage can cause car accidents by:
- Sudden loss of control: A deep pothole can cause a driver to lose control, leading to crashes.
- Swerving into other lanes: To avoid potholes, drivers may veer into oncoming traffic or nearby vehicles.
- Rear-end collisions: Sudden braking to avoid road hazards can lead to chain-reaction crashes.
3. Motorcycle and Bicycle Accidents
For motorcyclists and cyclists, hitting a pothole or an uneven road can be especially dangerous. These motorcycle accidents can result in:
- Broken bones
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Road rash and severe abrasions
4. Pedestrian Injuries
Sidewalk potholes and road defects can also cause pedestrian injuries. A poorly maintained walkway, curb, or crosswalk can lead to slip and fall accidents, resulting in fractures, concussions, and other serious injuries.
Can You File a Claim for Pothole Damage or Injury?
Yes! If you were injured or your vehicle was damaged due to potholes or road defects, you may be able to file a claim against the responsible party. The success of your claim depends on several factors:
- Negligence: You must prove that the city, county, or responsible entity failed to properly maintain the road or did not fix a known hazard in a reasonable amount of time.
- Notice of the Hazard: If the agency responsible for road maintenance was aware of the pothole or damage but failed to repair it, they may be liable. Evidence such as prior complaints, work orders, or past accidents in the same location can help establish liability.
- Statutory Deadlines: Claims against government entities have strict time limits. In Pennsylvania, you generally have six months to file a notice of claim against a government agency for road-related damages.
A top personal injury lawyer in Scranton can help you navigate these legal requirements and build a strong case.
How to Strengthen Your Case After a Pothole or Road Hazard Accident
If a pothole or road defect caused your accident, taking the following steps can help protect your claim:
- Take Photos and Videos: Document the pothole or road hazard, your vehicle damage, and any injuries. Include timestamps if possible.
- Report the Incident: File a complaint with PennDOT or your local municipality.
- Gather Witness Information: If others witnessed your accident, collect their contact details and statements.
- Get a Vehicle Inspection: Obtain a mechanic’s report detailing the damage caused by the road condition.
- Seek Medical Attention: If you were injured, get a medical evaluation immediately. Documentation of your injuries is crucial for your case.
- Consult a Personal Injury Attorney: A personal injury attorney in Scranton can help determine whether you have a valid claim and handle negotiations with government agencies or insurance companies.
What Compensation Can You Recover?
If you were injured or suffered property damage due to road conditions, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Vehicle Repairs or Replacement
- Medical Bills (Current and Future)
- Lost Wages and Loss of Earning Capacity
- Pain and Suffering
- Rehabilitation Costs
Each case is different, and the compensation you may receive depends on the extent of your injuries and damages. An experienced attorney at The Moran Law Group will evaluate your case and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Why Choose The Moran Law Group?
At The Moran Law Group, we understand how frustrating and financially draining it can be to deal with vehicle damage or injuries caused by poorly maintained roads. Our team of dedicated personal injury attorneys in Scranton has extensive experience handling claims against municipalities, contractors, and private property owners.
When you choose us, you get:
✔ A Thorough Investigation – We gather evidence to establish liability.
✔ Aggressive Legal Representation – We negotiate with insurance companies and government agencies.
✔ No Upfront Fees – We work on a contingency basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case.
Take Action Today – Get a Free Consultation
If you or a loved one has been injured due to a pothole or road defect, don’t wait. The sooner you act, the stronger your case will be. Contact Moran Law Group today for a consultation with an experienced personal injury attorney in Scranton.
📞 Call us now at 570-955-4516
📍 Visit our office at 116 North Washington Ave, STE 400 in Scranton
📨 Fill out our form and we’ll contact you ASAP.
Don’t let a neglected road ruin your life—let us fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.