When discussing roadway accidents, many people immediately think about negligent drivers, distracted pedestrians, road debris, or malfunctioning vehicles. However, an underlying contributor to accidents might just be the actual design and maintenance of our roads. Our infrastructure could bea contributing factor in what causes accidents. For residents of the greater Las Vegas metropolitan area, this issue is particularly pressing, as the region’s rapid growth and unique challenges host hazardous roadway conditions.

At Maddox & Cisneros, PPLC, we understand the complexities of roadway safety and are committed to shedding light on these less-obvious dangers. Below are some of the most significant infrastructure-related hazards thatdrivers face daily in our community.

1. Faded Pavement Markings

Southern Nevada’s extreme temperatures wreak havoc on road striping, from crosswalks tolane markings. The region’s intense heat quickly deteriorates paint, adhesives, and other materials. Accordingly, it’s not unusual to find a street without clear indicators.Lines where lanes shift can be virtually invisible. This coupled with high traffic volumes, increases the likelihood of collisions. Despite the best efforts of maintenance crews, keeping up with these challenges is an ongoing battle.

2. Debris on Roadways

Wind and construction activities frequently scatter debris across Las Vegas roadways causing drivers to dodge everything from nails toladders, from rocks and to blowing litter. With the city hosting over 40 million visitors annually, in addition to its 2.5 million residents, local roads see a higher volume of litter and debris than other similarly sized cities. This creates yet another layer of risk for drivers.

3. Flood-Prone Low Areas

In a city that seldom sees rain, when it does occur, many drivers are unprepared for the consequencesthat come with it. Water quickly pools in low-lying areas, causing hydroplaning, reduced visibility, and difficulties controlling sudden tugs onsteering wheels. Drivers unfamiliar with rainy driving conditions often find themselves overcompensating and getting into precarious situations during our rare but intense desertdownpours.

4. Unpredictable Lane Narrowing

Las Vegas drivers are not strangers to roads that unexpectedly shrink down from multiple lanes into a single one. This, of course, creates sudden bottlenecks and dangerous situations. These “saw-toothed” roads, as they’re locally known, cause abrupt braking, erratic lane changes, and unnecessary congestion. Maryland Parkway at Citrus Avenueon the south side of town is a prime example, but these are scattered throughout the valley. Without proper signage or warnings, sudden lane narrowing poses serious threats to safety.

5. Constant Construction Zones

Besides being the “Entertainment Capital of the World,” locals are well aware that Las Vegasis also the “Traffic Cone Capital of the World.” Having endured the Formula 1 road repaving projectand major construction on I-15 and the 215 Beltway, we know construction zones. While necessary for growth and improvement, these zones create confusion, congestion, and heightened risks for drivers and pedestrians alike. Even well-established construction areas blossom intoaccidenthotspots.

6. Improperly Designed Curves

A few Las Vegas roads feature curves that are either flat or, worse yet, slopedaway in the wrong downhill direction. These design flaws break tire traction at lower speeds than inattentive drivers might expect.

7. Obstructed Signage

Hidden stop signs and other hampered road signs are another hazard. These are often concealed behind overgrown trees, bushes, and perhaps unauthorized signage. Drivers navigating neighborhood streets can find themselves startled by signs that suddenly become visible. Abrupt stops andin worst cases, the running of stop signs results. For an area already challenged by a high number of traffic violations, including intoxicated drivers, unclear signage adds to the problem.

8. Poor Road Conditions

Uneven pavement, potholes, and poorly patched roads are more common than we might like.Drivers attempting to avoid these hazards often make sudden, unpredictable maneuvers, which, of course, increases the likelihood of collisions.The results are everything from bent rims and damaged tires to loss of vehicle control.

9. Median Cuts and Road Diversions

As the Las Vegas area continues to grow, new shopping centers, entertainment venues, and housing developments lead to frequent modificationsin road designs. These changes often result in unfamiliar driving patterns that leave residents and visitors alike confused and prone toward accidents.

Be Vigilant

For many of us, the daily commute becomes routine, and we give little thought to our journeys. However, the hazards posed by our region’s infrastructure should remind us to be vigilant behind the wheel. At Maddox & Cisneros, PLLC, we’ve seen firsthand how these challenges contribute to accidents and the legal complexities that follow.

When you or someone you know has been involved in an accident our team is here to help. Contact us today for a consultation and let us advocate for your rights. Together, we make things better for everyone.