Habush Habush & Rottier S.C. ® > Articles > The Hazards Of Potholes

The Hazards of Potholes

For most drivers, potholes are no more than a simple nuisance that must be avoided. However, you may not realize that these road defects can actually be very dangerous. Driving over a pothole can cause damage to your vehicle, and it can also result in head or neck pain caused by sudden jarring motions. Sadly, the outcome can be much more devastating if a motorcyclist drives over a pothole.

In most cases, it is your municipality’s responsibility to eliminate potholes so that they do not endanger motorists. If they fail to do so, they may be liable for damages caused by resulting car accidents. To discuss your case, contact a knowledgeable Appleton car accident attorney from Habush Habush & Rottier S.C. ® at 800-242-2874.

How do Potholes Form?

As roads age, they can form cracks due to erosion or settling pavement. When it rains or snows, water can flow into the crack and underneath the surface of the asphalt. If the water freezes, the expanding ice pushes against the surrounding layers of the road, causing it to crack further. Over time the weakened pavement can collapse, leading to a pothole.

Potential Dangers

As you bounce over a pothole, you can suffer from whiplash as your head gets flung around by the jolting motion. Additionally, your car may develop:

  • Misalignment of the wheels
  • Tire damage and flats
  • Suspension problems
  • Deterioration of the shocks

If you commute on a bicycle or motorcycle, you are prone to even more serious accidents as a pothole can cause you to completely lose control and to be ejected from your bike.

Contact Us

Potholes should be repaired promptly in order to limit the risk of causing accidents and injuries. If you are a victim of an accident caused by a pothole, you can fight back against this municipal negligence. Contact an experienced Appleton car accident lawyer from Habush Habush & Rottier S.C. ® at 800-242-2874 today to learn more about your legal options.