Several of Kansas’s major roadways are crumbling, making conditions dangerous for drivers. Old 169 Highway (US-169) around Iola and Humboldt is one of the many roadways devastated by potholes, cracks in the road, and other infrastructural defects.
Earlier this year, the Iola Register reported that increased traffic (including large commercial trucks) has taken a toll on Old 169, causing officials to close off some portions of the road and requiring drivers to take a detour.
Allen County officials have sought potential funding sources to restructure Old 169. Among those was the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT), but after receiving no response regarding the roadway repairs, county officials are seeking other options, according to a recent story in the Iola Register.
County officials taking matters into their own hands
Commissioner Jerry Daniels urged local officials to be proactive and take the initiative to make crucial roadway repairs in the near future.
“I think if we don’t hear anything from KDOT soon, we need to prioritize some of the hot spots and get them done,” Daniels said.
Daniels, along with other county commissioners, agreed to tour the roads with Public Works Director Mitch Garner to identify key roadway defects that need to be fixed before winter arrives.
Commissioners were granted a bid sheet by Bettis Asphalt, which totaled $816,729.25 and included seven sites along Old US-169/K-224 that are poised for repair.
Commission Bruce Symes explained how waiting on KDOT could make matters worse.
“I am not that optimistic that we are going to hear back from KDOT anytime soon. And with winter coming it is just going to make the bad spots worse,” Symes said.
The main areas of interest are K-224, Old 169, and US-169.
What are the dangers of driving on poorly maintained roads?
Poorly maintained roadways put drivers at risk of an accident for the following reasons:
- Hitting potholes and uneven surfaces can cause drivers to lose control of their cars.
- Drivers are at risk of tire blowouts.
- Lanes and roadway markings may be difficult to see when faded.
- Overgrown vegetation can block crucial signs.
If you were injured in a crash involving a roadway defect, you may be able to pursue a car accident claim if:
- Local or state officials failed to fix the defect.
- Another driver was traveling too fast, driving recklessly, driving negligently, or failing to take necessary precautions.
No matter how complex your car accident may seem, the legal team at Bretz & Young Injury Lawyers know how to take on negligent parties and get results. Our personal injury attorneys represent injured motorists across the state of Kansas. To find out how we can help you, contact us online and set up your free initial consultation today.
