Road defects threaten every driver with the possibility of serious auto damage, blown tires, and even dangerous accidents.
One of the most dangerous roadway defects affecting drivers is the dangerous shoulder drop-off.
The shoulder of most highways and roads is intended to be a safe spot for a driver to make an emergency stop.
If these sections of the road are not properly maintained or constructed, they can pose a serious threat to the safety of a driver.
A steep shoulder drop-off can be dangerous for a number of reasons.
If the drop-off is severe enough it can cause serious damage to both car and driver, much like hitting a pothole at a high speed.
If a driver hits the shoulder too quickly, it can cause a tire blowout, serious body damage, or damage to the brakes and suspension.
This type of damage can be frustrating and costly to repair.
It may also leave a car unable to continue to safely operate.
A great deal of the danger of a shoulder drop-off comes when cars attempt to re-enter the roadway.
These sharp inclines can also be the cause of dangerous roll-over accidents.
If a car's tires get caught on the edge of the shoulder drop-off a driver may not be able to control their vehicle.
This can result in dangerous accidents as a driver fights for control of their vehicle.
Often drivers are forced off the road to avoid a dangerous situation, but improper maintenance of the shoulder can be its own danger.
It is important for drivers to use extreme caution when reentering the road from a shoulder.