
Poorly maintained or dangerously designed roads can turn an ordinary drive into a serious accident. When pavement defects, missing signage, or inadequate drainage cause a crash, victims are often left with devastating injuries and costly repairs.
Darrell Cochran Personal Injury Lawyer has represented injured Washington residents for more than 30 years, recovering over $1 billion in verdicts and settlements. Our Seattle road defect lawyers have the resources and experience to take on complex claims involving state and municipal negligence. Contact us today at (253) 948-0250 for a free consultation.
How Can Darrell Cochran Personal Injury Lawyer Help After a Road Defect Accident in Seattle, WA?

Proving fault in a road defect case requires showing not only that a hazard existed, but that a government entity or contractor knew about it and failed to act. Our auto accident lawyers investigate quickly and thoroughly to uncover the evidence needed to establish negligence.
The Seattle personal injury lawyers at Darrell Cochran Personal Injury Lawyer understand the procedural challenges that come with suing public entities. We handle every part of the process, from claim notices to litigation, so you don’t have to.
When you choose us to represent you, we’ll begin:
- Inspecting the crash site and documenting dangerous conditions
- Reviewing maintenance records and prior complaints
- Consulting with engineers and accident reconstruction experts
- Identifying responsible agencies or contractors
- Calculating medical expenses, property damage, and long-term losses
- Filing a government claim and preparing any required notices
- Negotiating for a fair settlement or pursuing litigation if necessary
A personal injury attorney in Seattle, WA, from our firm will ensure your claim meets all legal requirements and is supported by clear, credible evidence. And, as the process moves forward, we’ll provide regular updates so you always know where things stand.
What Are the Common Types of Road Defects in Seattle?
Some of the most common road defects in Seattle are:
- Potholes and deteriorating pavement
- Poor drainage leading to flooding or hydroplaning
- Faded or missing lane markings
- Inadequate signage or lighting
- Uneven shoulders or abrupt drop-offs
- Unsafe intersections or missing guardrails
- Improperly completed construction work
When these hazards go ignored, drivers and pedestrians pay the price. Our attorneys work to hold those responsible for maintaining safe roadways accountable.
Who Can Be Liable for a Road Defect Accident?
Responsibility for a defective roadway often extends beyond one entity.
Depending on the situation, the following parties may be liable:
- City or state transportation departments responsible for maintenance
- Private contractors hired for construction or repairs
- Engineering firms that designed unsafe infrastructure
- Manufacturers of faulty materials or components
- Property owners who failed to address adjacent hazards
Identifying each negligent party ensures that no source of compensation is overlooked. You can trust us to pursue every dollar you need to recover from your injuries.
What Compensation Can Be Recovered in a Road Defect Case?
Victims injured by road defects may be entitled to compensation for both economic and non-economic damages.
Recovery may include:
- Medical care and rehabilitation expenses
- Property damage and vehicle replacement costs
- Lost wages and diminished earning potential
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of quality of life
- Wrongful death damages for surviving family members
No matter your injury, if you were hurt in an accident caused by dangerous road conditions, we can calculate your total injuries and losses and pursue the compensation you deserve.
How Long Do I Have to File a Lawsuit in Washington?
In Washington, most personal injury lawsuits must be filed within three years of the date of the accident. Claims involving government entities require formal notice before filing, which must be completed under strict procedural rules.
These time limits are unforgiving, which is why it’s so important to act quickly. Contacting a Seattle personal injury lawyer early gives your attorney time to investigate, prepare the claim, and ensure every filing meets the state’s legal deadlines.
Contact Our Seattle Road Defect Lawyers for a Free Consultation
When unsafe road conditions cause preventable accidents, accountability matters. Darrell Cochran Personal Injury Lawyer has more than 30 years of experience helping injured clients pursue justice and recover financial stability after serious crashes.
Our firm has recovered over $1 billion for clients and continues to stand up for those harmed by negligent maintenance and unsafe infrastructure. Call our offices today to schedule your free consultation with a Seattle road defect attorney.