Road Debris Car Accidents in Utah: What You Need to Know

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Road Debris Accidents on Utah Highways

Utah’s highways, including I-15, I-70, and I-215, are major corridors where high-speed travel and unsecured loads can create dangerous conditions. When items fall from vehicles, they often lead to serious accidents. According to Utah Code § 72-7-409, unsecured loads are a criminal offense with penalties based on the severity of the incident:

  • Infraction: Creates a hazard without causing an accident.
  • Class B Misdemeanor: Leads to a car accident.
  • Class A Misdemeanor: Causes an accident resulting in serious injury or death.

The Dangers of Road Debris in Utah

Common types of road debris that result in accidents include:

  • Truck Shells & Jeep Tops: Though less frequent, these items have injured motorists when improperly secured.
  • Trash Loads: Individuals transporting waste must secure their cargo to prevent it from becoming a road hazard.
  • Trailers: Trailers must have functioning safety chains. When improperly connected, they can detach, causing collisions or rollovers.
  • Moving Furniture or Items: Unsecured objects falling from vehicles force other drivers to swerve, increasing the risk of crashes.

Who Is Responsible for Keeping the Road Clear?

The State of Utah is responsible for maintaining safe roadways, but individuals are legally required to secure their loads. If a load falls, drivers must report the incident and assist law enforcement in clearing the debris.

Tips to Avoid Road Debris Accidents

Staying safe from road debris requires vigilance:

  • Keep a Safe Distance: Maintain enough space to react if debris appears suddenly.
  • Stay Alert: Be aware of vehicles carrying potentially unsecured loads.
  • Report Debris: Call 911 if you encounter dangerous debris on the road.

What to Do After a Road Debris Accident

If you are involved in a road debris accident:

  1. Document the Scene: Take photos of the debris and any vehicle damage.
  2. Call the Police: Ensure a report is filed, especially if the at-fault driver left the scene.
  3. Identify Witnesses: Collect statements and contact information from bystanders.
  4. Track Debris Removal: Contact the Utah Highway Patrol for any records related to the removal of road debris.

Determining Liability for Road Debris Accidents

Drivers must secure their loads, and failure to do so may indicate negligence. Although road debris accidents often suggest fault, proving liability can be complex if the at-fault party leaves the scene.

How a Utah Car Accident Lawyer Can Help

Navigating insurance claims for road debris accidents can be challenging, particularly with uninsured motorist (UM) coverage disputes. Insurance companies may deny claims if the at-fault driver is not identified.

  • Hire an Attorney: An experienced lawyer can locate witnesses, gather evidence, and submit public records requests for law enforcement reports.
  • Build a Strong Case: Proper documentation strengthens your case against insurance companies or negligent drivers.

Road Debris and Utah’s Uninsured Motorist Coverage

Your UM coverage can protect you if the at-fault driver is unidentified. However, Utah law requires higher levels of evidence to claim UM benefits:

  • No-Touch Hit-and-Run Accidents: Clear and convincing evidence beyond the victim’s testimony is needed.
  • Touch Hit-and-Run Accidents: Less stringent evidence requirements apply if your vehicle was hit.

Get the Compensation You Deserve Jacob S. Gunter | Personal Injury Attorney in Provo

If you’ve been injured in a road debris accident, call Jake Gunter, Utah’s experienced car accident lawyer, for a free consultation. With the right legal support, you can pursue compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.

Contact Us 📞 Call/Text: (801) 373-6345.  Gunter Injury Law – Your Utah Road Debris Accident Lawyer