Like most other states, Virginia’s roadways were designed with trucks and cars in mind, not motorcycles. While the first two types of vehicles can easily withstand driving over a few potholes every so often, any piece of detritus has the potential to be a real nightmare for a motorcycle rider. Take a second to imagine the numerous hazards that motorcyclists commonly encounter during a ride through Virginia. The roadways are festooned with potholes. Road crews blow grass and leaves across the roadways, making them slippery. Low-hanging, fallen, and view-obstructive branches are an ever-present threat. Construction zones have traffic congestion, barriers, and cones. In more rural areas, loose pavement, gravel, and unlit intersections are alarmingly common sights.
Any one of these road hazards has the capacity to cause injuries and even death to an unsuspecting motorcyclist. After an accident, it is critical to determine how it happened and who was at fault. If you sustained injuries in a Virginia Beach motorcycle accident that was the result of a poorly maintained roadway, you could be eligible to collect damages for your injuries and other losses. Contact the skilled Virginia Beach motorcycle accident attorneys at the Virginia Beach personal injury law firm of Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp to schedule a free case evaluation.
The State of Virginia’s Roadways
A study that reviewed data published by the Department of Transportation discovered that just under 83% of the state’s roadways are considered acceptable. After a study conducted in 2022, Virginia was rated 22nd out of all 50 states for road conditions. The study, which consisted of the inspection of roughly 19,000 miles of road, found that less than 16,000 were in “acceptable condition”.’
Motorcycle Accident Statistics
In 2022, 115 motorcycle riders died and about 2,053 more sustained serious injuries in Virginia motorcycle accidents. In the first half of 2023, nine riders were killed and 162 were injured before the summer riding season even began. A report from the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles shows that the majority of motorcycle accidents take place from May to August.
Despite significant advances in laws, gear, and technology related to safety features, the percentage of riders who are either killed or injured on Virginia roadways is concerning. Nationwide, deadly motorcycle accidents are also a serious issue. In 2021, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported that motorcycle riders accounted for the highest percentage (14%) of all fatal traffic collisions since 1975.
The Dangers of Poor Roadway Conditions for Motorcyclists
Motorcycles are not as steady as four-wheeled vehicles, which makes them more vulnerable to road dangers. Some ways that badly maintained or unmaintained roadways can contribute to motorcycle crashes include:
- Uneven Road Surfaces: Roadways that have sudden changes in their height or are uneven can destabilize riders. Uneven roadways are particularly hazardous at higher speeds, where even a tiny bump could easily cause a motorcyclist to lose control of their bike.
- Potholes: The potholes that mark most of Virginia’s roads are another major threat to motorcyclists. Striking a pothole can result in a rider losing control and causing a collision. In some instances, a pothole can lead to a tire blowout and produce catastrophic results.
- Ruts and Cracks: Ruts and cracks in the asphalt can cause motorcycle tires to catch and riders to lose their balance. Ruts and cracks are extremely dangerous when they form parallel to the direction of travel.
- Loose Gravel and Debris: Any debris on the roadway, like litter, leaves, or loose gravel, can cause motorcyclists to skid. Unlike four-wheeled vehicles, motorcycles do not have the stability needed to safely maneuver around these and other obstacles.
Who is at Fault?
When you look at the factors listed above, it might occur to you that almost all of these hazards are avoidable. While, obviously, no one can stop a thunderstorm from happening, it is the responsibility of either the local or state government to maintain drains and grates that prevent hazardous flooding properly.
A road management agency or construction company may be liable if traffic cones blow over and create a road hazard. If your accident was caused by a hazardous condition in a parking lot or parking garage, the property management company may be liable. Other potentially liable parties include businesses, other drivers, and vehicle and parts manufacturers, depending on the circumstances of your accident.
Once you and your Virginia Beach motorcycle accident lawyer have established liability for your crash, you can file a motorcycle accident claim in order to obtain financial compensation for your lost wages, medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering.
Were You Injured in a Motorcycle Accident?
If you were harmed in a Virginia Beach motorcycle collision that was the result of a badly maintained roadway, contact an experienced Virginia Beach motorcycle accident attorney from Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp. Our law firm has over 70 years of combined experience ensuring that motorcycle accident victims see successful outcomes to their claims. One example of this is the settlement for $1.85 million we secured for the surviving family members of a Navy servicemember who was fatally injured when he was struck by a truck operator. To discuss your motorcycle accident during a free case review, call us at (833) 997-1774 or fill out the contact form on our website. Our offices are in Virginia Beach, Portsmouth, Hampton, and Norfolk.