Who Is Liable for a Car Accident Caused by Freeway Debris?

Freeways keep our world moving, helping millions of people get where they need to go every day. But when debris ends up on the road—whether it’s from a blown tire, an unsecured load, or a fallen tree branch—a routine drive can quickly turn into a nightmare. Accidents caused by freeway debris can leave drivers shaken, injured, and facing expensive repairs or medical bills.

If you’ve been in a freeway debris accident, you’re probably wondering: Who’s responsible for this? Can I get help with my expenses? In this blog, we’ll explain who can be held accountable for these accidents, how negligence plays a role, and what steps you can take to protect yourself and your rights.

What is Freeway Debris?

Freeway debris refers to any object that shouldn’t be on the road, creating potential hazards for motorists. Common types of debris include:

• Unsecured cargo: Items falling off trucks due to poorly secured loads.
• Road gators: Shredded tire pieces scattered across lanes.
• Natural debris: Rocks, tree branches, or mudslides from surrounding areas.
• Vehicle parts: Broken bumpers, mufflers, or other components detached from cars.

While some debris may result from unavoidable natural causes, much of it stems from human negligence—whether it’s a poorly secured load or inadequate road maintenance.

How Freeway Debris Causes Accidents

According to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety report, freeway debris contributes to over 50,000 reported accidents annually in the U.S., with many resulting in severe injuries or fatalities. Typical accident scenarios include:

• Swerving to avoid debris: Drivers lose control or collide with other vehicles.
• Punctured tires: Sharp objects cause blowouts, leading to dangerous situations.
• Flying objects: Debris striking vehicles, shattering windshields, or causing crashes.

These incidents often lead to costly vehicle repairs, medical bills, and, tragically, loss of life.

Determining Liability for Freeway Debris Accidents

When a freeway debris accident occurs, assigning liability can be tough. Here are the potential parties that may be held accountable:

1. Negligent Drivers

Drivers carrying unsecured loads are frequently at fault when items fall off their vehicles and cause accidents. California law requires drivers to properly secure cargo, and failure to comply can lead to:

• Traffic citations and fines.
• Civil liability for damages and injuries caused by the debris.

2. Road Maintenance Authorities

Public entities, such as the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), are responsible for maintaining road safety. If debris remains on a freeway long enough to cause an accident, victims may file claims against these agencies for negligence. Proving liability requires evidence that the agency knew about the hazard but failed to act within a reasonable timeframe.

3. Manufacturers

When accidents result from defective vehicle parts—such as tire tread separations or faulty cargo straps—product liability laws may apply. In such cases, the manufacturer could be held responsible for producing defective or poorly designed products.

What to Do After a Freeway Debris Accident

Dealing with the aftermath of a freeway debris accident can be stressful and confusing, but taking the right steps can make all the difference. Whether you’re seeking compensation for damages or injuries, understanding your legal options is crucial. Here’s what you should know:

File an Insurance Claim

If your vehicle or personal safety was compromised due to freeway debris, your insurance might cover the damage, depending on your policy. Comprehensive coverage typically includes debris-related incidents, but insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. To strengthen your claim, make sure to:

• Take clear photos of the debris, your vehicle, and any damage.
• Collect witness statements from those who saw the accident.
• Finding dashcam and other surveillance footage if available—it can be invaluable in proving how the accident occurred.

Stay persistent with your insurer and be prepared to appeal if your claim is undervalued or denied.

Prove Negligence

Proving negligence is essential for holding the responsible party accountable and securing compensation. This involves answering critical questions, such as:

• Did the debris come from an unsecured load? If so, the driver or owner of the vehicle may be liable.
• Was the road maintenance authority negligent? If the debris was present long enough for authorities to address it but they failed to act, you may have grounds for a claim against them.
• Is a defective product to blame? If the debris came from a faulty vehicle part, such as a blown tire or broken bumper, the manufacturer could be held responsible under product liability laws.

Building a solid case requires evidence, such as maintenance logs, accident reports, or product defect records. As such, navigating the legal process alone can be daunting, especially in cases involving multiple parties or complex liability issues. In these cases, it is recommended to consult with an experienced attorney, because they can help identify the responsible parties, gather and present compelling evidence to support your claim, and even negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you receive the compensation you’re entitled to.

Contact West Coast Trial Lawyers for Expert Legal Help

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident caused by freeway debris, don’t navigate the legal process alone. Call us today at (213) 927-3700 or use our online contact form to schedule your free consultation. Our team of experienced attorneys is here to answer your questions, investigate your case, and advocate on your behalf. You don’t pay unless we win.