Along with negligent driving behaviors, poor road conditions can also lead to accidents. Bad visibility, road defects and other issues put all motorists in jeopardy.
While you cannot always avoid car crashes, understanding the role road conditions can play is important for maintaining safety.
Uneven surfaces and traction issues
Potholes, cracks and unrepaired damages create a hazardous terrain for vehicles. These defects make cars and trucks on the road more susceptible to skidding during adverse weather conditions. Accordingly, drivers can face challenges maintaining traction.
Poorly maintained signage and lighting
The lack of proper signage and lighting significantly impairs visibility, increasing the likelihood of collisions. Without advance warning, drivers struggle to anticipate turns and other important elements of the road. As a result, adequate lighting and well-maintained signage are components of safe roads, as they enable quick reactions.
Inadequate drainage
Neglected roads often suffer from poor drainage systems, especially during heavy rainfall. Hydroplaning occurs when a layer of water builds up between the tires and the road surface, causing a loss of control. Proper drainage is vital to prevent such water-related accidents and ensure the safety of road users.
Delayed maintenance
Postponing road maintenance can have serious consequences. A lack of timely repairs allows minor issues to escalate into major hazards, jeopardizing the safety of everyone on the road. Regular inspections, prompt repairs and proactive maintenance are important for preventing accidents caused by deteriorating road conditions.
As reported by Forbes, car crashes led to 1,593,390 injuries in 2020. While accidents can happen at any time, safe driving could prevent many injuring-causing incidents on the road.