Potholes and Unsafe Roads in Santa Clara: Understanding Liability

Road defects in Santa Clara appear in many forms, creating serious risks for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians. Some of the most common hazards include:

• Potholes, uneven surfaces, and deep cracks can cause drivers to lose control.
• Loose gravel and road debris increase stopping distances and create slipping hazards for two-wheel vehicles.
• Faded lane markings make navigating busy intersections dangerous.
• Poor drainage that hides surface damage and increases accident risks.

According to the Federal Highway Administration, roadway deficiencies contribute to more than one-third of all traffic fatalities in the U.S.—a sobering reminder of how dangerous neglected infrastructure can be. Heavy vehicle use and seasonal weather changes accelerate this damage in high-traffic corridors like Santa Clara.

How Road Defects Cause Accidents

Poorly maintained roads can turn an ordinary trip into a dangerous situation. Common ways they lead to serious collisions include:

• Loss of vehicle control from uneven pavement or deep potholes.
• Sharp edges or hidden cracks cause tire blowouts.
• Cyclist and pedestrian injuries due to loose gravel or crumbling sidewalks.

For example, hitting a deep pothole at moderate speed can cause a sudden tire blowout, forcing the driver to swerve into another lane and causing a car crash.

These situations show how potholes and unsafe roads in Santa Clara can escalate quickly, leading to severe injuries and costly damages.

Who’s Responsible for Road Maintenance in Santa Clara

Negligence for repairing potholes and unsafe roads in Santa Clara depends on where the defect is located:

Under California Government Code §835, a personal injury case requires proving that:

1. A dangerous condition existed.
2. It directly caused your accident.
3. The responsible agency had notice and failed to repair it in time.

Per the California Government Claims Act (Gov. Code §905, Gov. Code §911.2(a), Gov. Code §945.4), claims against public entities must be filed within six months of injury or property damage. Missing this deadline can bar you from recovering compensation. Our skilled Santa personal injury lawyers can identify the correct agency, gather strong evidence, and ensure your claim is filed on time to protect your rights.

Filing a Claim for Damages or Injuries

You must act quickly when potholes and unsafe roads in Santa Clara cause a car crash. The personal injury claim process typically involves:

1. Identify the responsible entity – Determine whether it’s the city, county, or Caltrans.
2. Gather and submit claim forms – Include accident reports, photographs, and medical bills, and file under the California Government Claims Act within the six-month deadline.
3. Secure legal representation – Especially in complex cases, an attorney can navigate multiple jurisdictions and protect your rights.

Having experienced legal counsel from the start ensures deadlines are met, evidence is preserved, and the strongest possible case for fair compensation is built.

Evidence Needed for Road Defect Cases

Substantial evidence is essential to prove your personal injury claim after a Santa Clara car crash caused by potholes and unsafe roads in Santa Clara. The most valuable types of evidence include:

• Photographs – Clear images of the road defect, accident scene, and vehicle damage.
• Witness statements – Testimony from people who saw the accident or the hazardous condition.
• Video footage – From dashcams, surveillance cameras, or nearby businesses.
• Accident reports – Police or traffic collision reports documenting the incident.
• Medical records and bills – Proof of injuries, treatment, and related medical expenses.

Collecting and preserving this evidence early can significantly strengthen your case. An experienced attorney can coordinate investigations, subpoena video records, and ensure no critical proof is lost before filing your claim.

FAQs About Unsafe Road Accidents in Santa Clara