Road design and construction contribute daily to truck accidents.
Several of the more common factors include barriers and guardrails, exit and entrance ramps, road markings and road surfaces, signage problems, roadway shoulder designs, traffic control mechanisms, visibility, and the flow of traffic patterns.
Many times the failure to recognize traffic slowing in construction areas can play a part in an 18-wheeler accident.
Guardrails and barriers such as those that separate the flow of traffic in opposite directions are safety devices whose inadequate design or implementation leaves drivers vulnerable to accidents. In addition, exit and entrance ramps that cause traffic back-ups or an inability to enter and leave the highway safely without endangering drivers around you can also be traced to poor road design.
In addition, when construction takes place many times the warnings and work itself can cause motorists to "rubber neck" which leads to a dangerous situation due to the disparity of speeds.
Road markings such as 'do not cross' yellow lines or highway reflectors play an integral role in keeping motorists safe. These must receive regular maintenance to ensure driver safety - Some locations the huge number of accidents should cause authorities to reevaluate what is not working.
In addition, poorly maintained road surfaces are a recipe for driver disaster. Potholes and grooves in the highway surface should indicate to the driver that the road may not be well maintained and to pay close attention. An absence of these two important safety features can lead to accidents.
Traffic control devices including traffic lights, appropriate signage (yield, slow down, etc.), pedestrian crosswalks and more are also meant to keep drivers, passengers and walkers safe. Many times like after a hurricane, signals are largely out for a good part of Texas.
Visibility is an important factor in road design and plays a big part in many construction accidents on the roadway.
Finally, although not impossible, road defect litigation is extremely difficult and many legal hurtles exist in Texas to bringing such a case.
The better course of action is to be extra cautious in construction areas and road conditions when driving.
