Dangerous Roadways and Pedestrian Accidents

Posted on by O'Dea Law Firm

Media outlets and even many authorities are quick to cite distracted driving or distracted walking as being the culprit of most pedestrian accidents. However, what often becomes clear only after multiple incidents is that some roadways are simply not safe for pedestrians or bicyclists. Even when those pedestrians have the right-of-way and motorists exercise utmost caution, there exist dangerous roadways and intersections where accidents occur. In these situations, the governmental agency charged with building and maintaining the roadway is potentially liable.

Investigating Dangerous Roadways

It takes an experienced Minnesota accident lawyer to legally determine whether or not a specific roadway and its maintaining body are at fault for accident. However, the following are some of the more common examples of dangerous or defective conditions that may offer potential legal remedies:

  • Poor lighting.  This is especially important during these long winter nights. Roadways without proper lighting are often among the most dangers. The government is responsible for fixing areas with a history of accidents due to inadequate lighting.
  • Negligent foliage maintenance.  It’s integral for trees, bushes, and other leafy foliage to undergo regular trimming to ensure no signs get impeded. Failure by the government to do so can impact visibility and cause pedestrian accidents.
  • Poor roadway maintenance.  Intersections and cross walks require regular maintenance to ensure that surfaces are even. This prevents vehicles from spinning out of control should they hit a pothole or bump unexpectedly.
  • Dangerous design.  Sometimes roadways are dangerous due to their very design. Maybe the government built a cross walk too close to a hill, resulting in limited visibility for pedestrians and vehicles. Or signage doesn’t adequately reflect a frequently used cross walk.

Proving government fault for pedestrian accidents isn’t always easy, but it necessary to prevent further accidents. If you are someone you know was hurt while navigating Minnesota roadways, then contact us today to learn more about your rights and potential claim.

Testimonials

I had a wonderful experience here. Mr O’Dea was extremely effective, helped me understand what was going on thoughout the whole process, and did everything he could to make my case as easy as possible.

Cason L.

I was in a car accident in July 2015, and sustained injuries to my neck and back. I was referred to Rich O’Dea by my chiropractor, and every day since that time, Rich has been available anytime I’ve had a question or concern. Rich has explained the entire process clearly and each process has gone just as he has explained it. It’s also comforting to know that you’re only dealing with him directly, your not pawned off to other people in the office. I would refer Rich O’Dea to my family, friends or stranger’s knowing that they’re in the best hands .

Daniel O.

I would recommend Rich O’Dea to anyone seeking a personal injury lawyer. He explained everything, making the process easy to understand. His experience was evident. I was entirely confident in him. My experience with Rich O’Dea was excellent.

Sarah W.

I was in a car accident with neck and back injuries. After the accident, I started to see a chiropractor who referred me to Rich to help with the stressful path of medical bills. Rich was so knowledgeable and helpful, I was able to focus on healing. He was also very accommodating for appointments to meet with him, and he had excellent communication through out the whole process. I highly recommend working with him.

Sarah J.

I was in an auto accident in the fall of 2017. I sustained neck and back injuries, totaled my vehicle, and had many medical bills to worry about. Rich was a tremendous help in exploring my options, thoroughly explaining the process and procedures, and being upfront with what he thought of the overall outcome. A year later–my medical bills are paid and I am in better health. Thankful for Rich’s support, knowledge, and dedication to my case and situation.

Samantha S.

Quick to respond to messages. Answers all questions. Makes it easier for a person to heal not having to deal with the insurance companies. Would recommend!

Marcy S.

I really happy with the help O’Dea law firm has helped me. I get very confused by the whole process and the big words used. However O’Dea has help me be able to understand so I’m aware of what’s being discussed about and the action that are being taken. I feel confident in O’Dea law firm to fight for me that’s why I’ve gone back to them for help. I was very happy how well they help my family and I the first time around and so far I’m pleased with how things are going this time around.

Tessa B.

I would recommend Richard to anyone seeking a personal injury lawyer, knowing myself that they would be in best of hands with him.
Everything was clear, understandable, nothing was left out, his experience is unlike any other, top notch without a doubt in mind.
Could not of been happier with the outcome of my accident, making sure I was back on my feet, in better health & on top, medical bills were paid and a fair settlement in the end.

Excellent experience with Richard O’Dea! Mitch

Mitch S.

I highly recommend Rich to anyone dealing with a personal injury case. I was involved in an auto accident in October of 2018 and was left with neck and back injuries. After multiple phone calls with insurance companies, I decided it was time to see Rich and I am so glad that I did. He was very informative throughout the whole process and was able to give great advice based on his experience. I was able to get all of my medical expenses paid which is all I wanted. He made a very stressful situation stress-free!

Brittany S.

Recent News & Updates

Richard O’Dea Named To 2023 Super Lawyers List

Richard O’Dea has been awarded the 2023 Minnesota Super Lawyers list! This award is given…

Richard O’Dea Named To 2020 Super Lawyers List

For 2020, Richard O’Dea has been named a “Minnesota Super Lawyer” by Super Lawyers, a…

Rich O’Dea named to 2018 Minnesota Super Lawyers List!

For 2018, for the 14th year in a row, Rich O’Dea has been named to…

Read All News