Maryland Car Accident Attorney Blog
A recent pedestrian death in Harford County has once again raised questions about safety along Route 1. The victim was struck and killed while attempting to cross the busy road, highlighting ongoing concerns about whether state and local authorities are doing enough to protect the public.
If you are injured on a dangerous roadway, liability may extend beyond individual drivers. Government agencies and contractors can sometimes be held accountable when roadway design, poor maintenance, or delayed safety upgrades contribute to a fatal or life-altering crash. Speaking with an attorney can help you determine whether your case involves this type of claim.
How Roadway Design Can Increase the Risk of Accidents
Some highways and intersections are more hazardous than others. Route 1 in particular has a history of deadly collisions involving pedestrians and vehicles. High traffic volume, limited crosswalks, poor lighting, and inadequate signals can all combine to make the road dangerous for drivers and pedestrians alike.
When conditions like these are known to state or local authorities, the failure to address them can create serious risks. Maryland’s State Highway Administration has acknowledged ongoing issues along the Route 1 corridor, with several upgrades scheduled for completion this year. Unfortunately, for some families, those changes will come too late.
Is the Government Responsible for Road Safety?
Government entities are responsible for maintaining reasonably safe roads for the public. This duty includes:
- Performing regular inspections to identify hazards;
- Responding to accident data that shows recurring problems;
- Installing signals, signs, and barriers where needed; and
- Ensuring construction projects are completed promptly and effectively.
If authorities fail to take reasonable steps and accidents continue to occur in the exact locations, victims may have grounds to pursue a personal injury claim against the responsible entity. These claims can be complex because governments enjoy certain protections from lawsuits, but they are not immune when negligence leads to harm.
When Victims Can Hold Government Entities Liable
Pursuing a case against a government agency in Maryland requires meeting strict notice and filing deadlines. The Maryland Tort Claims Act and the Local Government Tort Claims Act outline how and when these lawsuits may be brought. Missing a deadline can prevent recovery entirely, even if negligence is apparent.
Victims of accidents caused in part by poor roadway design may recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Families who lose loved ones can bring wrongful death claims seeking compensation for funeral costs, lost income, and the emotional impact of the loss. These cases are challenging, but they are an essential tool for holding government entities accountable and encouraging safer road design in the future.
The Role of Ongoing Safety Improvements
Officials have announced new projects to improve sections of Route 1, including resurfacing, reflective pavement markings, sidewalk and ramp repairs, and updated traffic signals. While these changes are essential, the pattern of fatalities shows that the upgrades may not come quickly enough for residents who rely on this corridor every day.
By pursuing claims after accidents, victims and families not only seek compensation for their own losses but also draw attention to the need for immediate improvements. In many cases, legal pressure is what prompts agencies to prioritize safety projects that might otherwise be delayed.
Contact Lebowitz and Mzhen After a Serious Maryland Car Accident
If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in a crash on a dangerous road, you may have legal options beyond a claim against another driver. The attorneys at Lebowitz & Mzhen have extensive experience in Maryland accident cases and can evaluate whether roadway design or government inaction played a role. Call (800) 654-1949 today for a free consultation to discuss your case and learn how we can help you pursue justice and accountability.