If you’ve found yourself dealing with damage from road debris, you may be wondering: who is responsible for road debris damage in California? To help you stay safe on the road and protect your rights, here’s a guide to understanding who is liable for damage caused by road debris.
Determining Responsibility for Road Debris Damage in California
Liability for debris damage in California can depend on various factors, such as whether the debris was caused by another driver’s actions, poor road maintenance, or a failure by a government agency to address known hazards. An experienced personal injury attorney will be able to evaluate the circumstances of your case to determine who should be liable for your damages.
Does Insurance Cover Road Debris Damage in California?
Comprehensive insurance typically covers damage caused by road debris, such as rocks or other objects that damage your vehicle. This coverage often includes damage from flying debris kicked up by other vehicles.
On the other hand, collision insurance covers damage resulting from hitting an object on the road, like a tire or other solid items lying on the roadway. If you only have liability insurance, it will not cover damage to your vehicle from road debris, as liability insurance only covers damage you cause to other people’s property.
Who Is Responsible for Road Maintenance in California?
The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), local city governments and county road departments share responsibility for road maintenance in California. Caltrans manages state highways and interstate freeways, while city and county governments are usually responsible for local roads.
To prove that a government agency was negligent in maintaining a road, you would need to demonstrate that the agency knew, or should have known, about the debris and failed to take action in a reasonable amount of time.
How Do I Report Highway Debris in California?
You can report road hazards, including debris, to Caltrans by calling their customer service line or using their online Customer Service Request system. For debris on local roads, you need to contact the appropriate city or county government. In emergencies where debris poses an immediate threat to safety, you can dial 911. When reporting, provide as much detail as possible, including the exact location and any potential dangers it may pose.
What Happens If You Hit an Object on the Freeway?
If you hit debris on the freeway, you should safely pull over and assess any damage or injuries. You should also contact your insurance company to report the incident.
If the debris fell off another vehicle, the driver of that vehicle may be liable for any resulting damage. If the debris was due to road conditions and maintenance failures, you may consider filing a claim against the responsible government agency.
Sargon Law Group Helps You Seek Compensation for Damages
Liability depends on how exactly the debris came into contact with your vehicle. For a free evaluation of your road debris damage case, contact Sargon Law Group. Our experienced team of car accident attorneys in Phoenix will help you understand your options and pursue the best course of action.