Due to frequent congestion, the presence of many large trucks, and design features, the Brent Spence Bridge connecting Covington, KY, to Cincinnati, OH often sees many accidents. In the event of an accident on this bridge involving two or more vehicles, it’s important to know what steps to take to build a viable accident case.
To schedule a free consultation with a car accident lawyer for Brent Spence Bridge accidents, call Young, Reverman & Bolotin at 513-400-0000.
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Why Car Crashes Are So Common on the Brent Spence Bridge
The Brent Spence Bridge is a critical interstate structure that crosses the Ohio River, connecting the cities of Cincinnati, OH, and Covington, KY. Many people from both states and across the country rely on this bridge to cross the river, but it’s a frequent accident hotspot due to certain features and traffic patterns.
While a recent entrance redesign has led to a 49% decrease in Brent Spence Bridge accidents, many accidents do still occur on this bridge because of its generally outdated design, frequent congestion during busy hours, and the involvement of large trucks that often experience issues when changing lanes.
For example, one significant accident that occurred on this bridge in 2020 involved a semi-truck that jackknifed into other vehicles and caused a multi-vehicle collision. One vehicle involved was another truck carrying hazardous materials, igniting a fire and trapping motorists while causing severe damage to the bridge.
Accidents like these can cause serious injuries and other damages, making it important for victims to determine liability and take steps to recover compensation from negligent parties.
Key Factors That Contribute to Crashes on the Brent Spence Bridge
Multiple factors can lead to Brent Spence Bridge accidents, including:
Narrow Lanes
Certain areas of bridges have thinner lanes than traditional roadways. As a result, drivers may begin to drift between lanes and cause an accident if they’re not careful.
Traffic Congestion
Bridges, including the Brent Spence Bridge, often see higher traffic than other roadways. This bridge in particular sees heavy traffic during rush hour as people cross the Ohio River to Kentucky or Ohio.
Wind
Many bridges that cross rivers and other large bodies of water often experience higher winds, which can render vehicles unstable as they attempt to cross. Larger vehicles like tractor-trailers are also more susceptible to stronger winds because of their height and increased risk of instability.
Expansion Joints
Bridges also often have expansion joints in certain areas to maintain the bridge’s structural integrity in the event of temperature fluctuations. While these features serve an integral function in keeping bridges safe, they can also present a hazard in the form of uneven surfaces that increase accident risks.
Disobeying Signals and Signs
Drivers must also obey signage and signals, including posted speed limits and other types of instructions or markings. Otherwise, drivers can easily get into an accident through improper lane changes, speeding, and other secondary factors.
Surface Conditions
Depending on the bridge material, surface conditions may become hazardous in inclement weather or from spills. Also, over time, wear and tear can change the bridge’s surface, leading to cracks, potholes, and uneven surfaces that can all contribute to an accident.
Exceeding Weight Capacity
Another factor to consider is the bridge’s weight capacity. While the Brent Spence Bridge doesn’t advertise its weight capacity, trucks generally must not exceed a maximum weight of 40 tons or 80,000 pounds. Too much weight could compromise a bridge’s infrastructure and may even contribute to a collapse.
How Liability Works in Multi-Vehicle Accidents on Interstate Bridges
In the event of an accident on the Brent Spence Bridge, it’s important to know how Covington and Cincinnati interstate crash liability works. First, let’s consider the location of the accident and how that would impact liability. Because of its position, the Brent Spence Bridge is technically located in both Ohio and Kentucky. The precise side of the bridge on which your accident occurred would be up for law enforcement to decide. A police report will indicate where the accident took place, which would dictate in which state your case resides.
Next, you will need to prove you are not at fault in a car accident with sufficient evidence to show that one or more other parties were liable. In proving liability, you must show that a driver or another party owed you a duty of care, that the party breached that duty, and that the breach led to an accident and subsequent damages.
There are many types of evidence that can prove liability. Evidence in these cases includes:
- Medical bills and records proving the types of car accident injuries you sustained while connecting them to the accident
- Police reports detailing the accident and who was liable
- Proof of lost income and lost earning capacity
- Property damage
- Footage of the accident, damage, and injuries
Contact an Attorney Following a Brent Spence Bridge Accident
Before filing a claim or lawsuit against a liable party, it’s critical to speak with an experienced car accident lawyer who may be able to help you navigate the legal process.
The right attorney can help determine who was liable in a multi-vehicle accident on the Brent Spence Bridge or another location, help collect evidence to build a case, and assist with negotiations or a lawsuit, if needed. He or she can also answer questions in a free consultation, including “Are car accident settlements taxable?” and “How will you handle my case?”
At Young, Reverman & Bolotin, we serve clients in Cincinnati, OH, and Covington, KY, helping victims recover compensation from negligent drivers and other liable people or entities. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with one of our attorneys.
