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Motor vehicle accidents can occur for any number of reasons. Distractions, recklessness, even fatigue can play a part in a collision between two vehicles. However, as many Fort Myers personal injury lawyers know, single-car accidents also take place on Florida roadways. One of the more common reasons for a single-car accident relates to debris that lands in the roadway, such as flying and/or falling rocks, debris from uncovered dump trucks or loose mufflers from vehicles.

Personal injury attorney Randall Spivey is well aware of the fact that there are many ways in which roadway debris can contribute to an accident. For example, stray rocks and debris can cause the drivers of automobiles to lose control of their vehicles, which might lead to those drivers running off the road and crashing. Larger items on the road might also lead drivers to need to brake suddenly and cause them to swerve and/or change lanes quickly, which could also result in a crash.

Who Can Be Held Responsible?

Most Fort Myers personal injury lawyers are aware of the fact that it could be quite difficult to determine exactly who can be held legally liable for the presence of roadway debris. If a truck loses a piece of tire tread or an automobile loses its muffler, and an unsuspecting driver shows up some time thereafter, it can become practically impossible for an individual to figure out which vehicle left the debris in the road. That said, it will become much more difficult to obtain damages and hold the proper driver or drivers legally responsible for any injuries and/or damages sustained.

On the other hand, there are occasions when drivers actually witness debris or rocks falling from a truck, and in those instances, the chances of being able to pursue a claim against the at-fault driver might be much better.

What Should You Do if You Are Hit by Roadway Debris?

If you are hit by stray rocks and/or debris while driving, and you've sustained damage and/or injuries, one of the first things you should do is pull over to a safe portion of the roadway and contact the authorities. If you believe that you have sustained injuries, you should also seek medical attention as soon as possible. Once law enforcement arrives, complete a police report (if you're not severely injured). Share as much information as possible with the authorities, particularly any information you have regarding the vehicle from which the debris may have fallen.

It is also important for accident victims to jot down notes of the events that led up to the occurrence of the accident. Write everything down and take photographs of the roadway and any damage and/or injuries suffered as soon as possible. Speak with a knowledgeable lawyer as soon as possible to ensure that all of your legal rights are preserved.

If you or someone you love has been involved in an accident caused by roadway debris, contact the Fort Myers personal injury lawyers at the Spivey Law Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.A. right away.