Rockland County’s narrow and twisting roads can be a problem for motorists, increasing the risk of car accidents. If you live in this New York county, you know the daily dangers residents and visitors face. Knowing more about Rockland’s infrastructure can help you avoid collisions and injuries.
Limited Visibility on Twisting Roads
One factor that makes Rockland County’s twisting roads hazardous is poor visibility. Sharp curves without clear visibility of the road ahead can make it difficult for the motorist to see oncoming traffic. This reduces the time the driver has to react to other cars and obstacles in their path.
Narrow Roads and Maneuverability
The narrow roadways in Rockland County limit maneuverability. Because of this, drivers may be forced to back up, go over the center line or drive too close to the roadside, which is narrow. This can result in sideswipes, collisions with guardrails, or sliding off the road.
Passing on Curved Roads
Passing slower-moving vehicles on Rockland’s curved roads can also be risky. Attempting to pass another car on a curved road increases the risk of head-on collisions or side-impact crashes. Motorists may also misjudge the distance and speed of oncoming vehicles, so the decision to pass can be faulty.
Difficulty Maintaining Speed on Twisting Roads
The narrow, twisting roads in Rockland County make it hard to maintain a consistent speed. Variable speed can lead to rear-end collisions. It is important to leave enough room between vehicles and avoid tailgating. At a slow speed, such accidents are usually not life-threatening but can cause significant injuries, such as whiplash. However, if the driver to the rear is speeding, a crash can result in head and body injuries that may be serious.
Weather-Related Challenges and Poor Road Conditions
Rockland County experiences varying weather conditions throughout the year, including rain, snow, and ice. These weather conditions can reduce traction, making it easy for vehicles to skid or lose control on sharp turns. Many drivers fail to take necessary precautions when approaching a curve in bad weather. Going into a curve without adapting to the weather can increase the risk of a car accident in Rockland.
Lack of Proper Signage and Road Markings
Effective signs and road markings are critical when streets are narrow and twisting. Insufficient signage, such as warning a driver of an upcoming curve, can leave drivers unaware of the hazards ahead until it is too late. Signs that are obscured by foliage are another problem. An injured person can file a claim for negligence against a government agency responsible for inadequate road maintenance.
When filing a claim against a government agency, it is necessary to do it within a deadline established by the state, called the statute of limitations. If you plan to file this type of claim in New York, you must alert the agency of your intent to sue within the first 90 days after the injury. Without telling the agency of your claim, you cannot file a civil case against them.
Rockland County’s Maintenance Division
The Maintenance and Construction Division in Rockland County works on 340 miles of roads, keeping them safe for travelers. Some of the tasks they do are:
- Repair potholes, cracks, and road shoulders.
- Remove snow and ice from county roads.
- Maintain and repair bridges and culverts.
- Repair or replace deteriorated guardrails.
The division can be reached by dialing 711 or calling (800) 662-1220 if you have questions or need help.
How an Attorney Can Help
If you are injured in a crash on a twisting or narrow road, let an experienced attorney review your case. A personal injury lawyer can schedule a free, no-obligation meeting where they will answer your questions and give you insight into your options moving forward. The attorney can also go to the accident scene to look for evidence. They can interview witnesses, obtain surveillance videos and use crash reconstruction data to support your claim. Once the evidence is amassed, the attorney will structure a strong case in your favor.
