When the Road Itself Becomes the Risk
Most drivers expect other cars to be the danger. But sometimes, it's the road beneath your tires that's the real threat.
Maybe you've slammed into a pothole that seemed to come out of nowhere. Or you’ve had to swerve last-minute because the lanes suddenly narrowed in a construction zone. These moments are more than just frustrations—they're potential hazards that could lead to serious injury or worse.
Let’s take a closer look at what might be hiding in plain sight on Texas highways.
Cracks in the Foundation
Pavement Problems
From potholes to cracked asphalt, damaged pavement is everywhere. And in Corpus Christi, where temperatures swing and storms roll in off the coast, roads take a beating.
When repairs are delayed or skipped altogether, those small cracks turn into gaping holes—ones that can blow out a tire or throw a car off course in a split second. It's not just rough on your vehicle—it can be flat-out dangerous.
Structural Deformities
Bridges and overpasses carry thousands of cars a day. But some of these structures weren’t built to handle today’s traffic loads—or they've been neglected for far too long.
When infrastructure isn't maintained, it starts to fail. That could mean unexpected closures, major traffic jams, or worse, the kind of collapse that puts lives at risk.
Construction Zones: Built-In Hazards
Lane Changes and Speed Shifts
Driving through construction zones can feel like a high-stakes game of reaction time. One minute you're in a two-lane road, the next, you're funneling through one narrow strip with orange barrels on both sides.
It doesn’t take much—just one wrong move in tight quarters—to end up in a collision. Slowing down and staying alert can help, but when signage is poor or lane lines vanish in the dust, even the most cautious drivers can be caught off guard.
Poor Traffic Management
Badly marked detours. Confusing signs. Concrete barriers that seem to pop up out of nowhere.
When traffic isn't managed clearly, it's easy to make a mistake. And in a construction zone, those mistakes can be costly. Without strong, consistent traffic control, drivers, workers, and pedestrians are all put at risk.
Who’s Responsible?
Determining Liability
If a crash happens because of road defects or confusing construction setups, who's at fault?
In Texas, roads are often maintained by city, county, or state agencies. But construction crews and contractors also have a duty to keep work zones safe. If negligence can be proven—like ignoring a known hazard or setting up an unsafe detour—you may be able to pursue a claim for injuries or damages.
Reporting Hazards
You don’t have to wait for someone else to fix the problem. If you notice a hazardous condition on the highway or in a construction zone, report it.
Letting the city know about dangerous potholes or broken signage can help get repairs prioritized—and prevent others from getting hurt. In Corpus Christi, use 311 or reach out directly to local public works departments.
Preventing These Problems
Smarter Materials
Today's road technology is evolving. New materials are being developed that can hold up better against heat, rain, and constant pressure.
In coastal areas like ours, investing in these solutions could mean fewer potholes, less disruption, and safer roads long-term.
Regular Inspections
The best way to fix a road problem is to catch it before it becomes a threat. That’s why routine inspections are critical.
By using both trained eyes and new tech tools, cities can find defects early and plan repairs before someone gets hurt. In Corpus Christi, this proactive approach would go a long way in making our roads safer and more reliable.
Real-World Impact
How Drivers Adjust
When you know the road might fail you, your entire driving experience changes. You’re more tense, more distracted, and more likely to make sudden decisions—like jerking the wheel to dodge a hole or slowing down abruptly in a confusing work zone.
That heightened stress isn’t just uncomfortable—it’s risky. Staying calm and focused is key, even when the road isn't helping.
Cost to the Community
These issues don’t just damage cars—they drag down our local economy.
Delivery delays, vehicle repairs, increased insurance claims, and reduced foot traffic for nearby businesses can all stem from bad roads and chaotic construction. But when streets are maintained well, the whole city benefits—from safer commutes to stronger commerce.
Injured by a Defective Road or Work Zone?
Road safety should be a given—not a gamble.
If you or someone you love was injured because of highway defects or a hazardous construction zone, you may have legal options. At Hilliard Law in Corpus Christi, we help injury victims hold the right parties accountable. Whether the danger came from a city road, a construction crew, or a failed inspection, we’re ready to stand by your side.
Call us today at (866) 927-3420 to get the guidance and representation you deserve.