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What Are Common Roadway Hazards?

Focused, personal representation for Tennessee families and businesses, with offices in Nashville and Memphis.

Last Updated: Aug 10, 2026

Read Time: 3 mins

With so many fatalities each year, it is easy to see that roadway hazards can be the main cause. Not everything is caused by other people but there are some hazards that are. Below are the most common hazards people can face while in a vehicle.

Bad Traffic

No matter where you are in the state there is going to be traffic. When traffic biomes bumper-to-bumper during commutes it can lead to drivers only paying some attention to the road while taking advantage of the slow speeds to check their phones. Because of this, there is a good opportunity for a collision to happen. Typically this ends in a rear-end accident which then can turn into a pileup if other drivers aren’t paying attention.

Reckless Drivers

Sadly, other drivers are common roadway hazards. This happens when a driver isn’t watching the road, obeying traffic rules, or even following the speed limit. A reckless driver is also someone that could be speeding, driving under the influence, driving the wrong way, or simply running a red light. These collisions can be hard to avoid as you can’t predict other drivers.

Wet or Oily Roads

Things like rainwater, ice, sleepy, snow, oil, and grease can present a risk to a vehicle as it means the vehicle can start to slide. The most dangerous time to be on a road is the first few minutes of a storm, as the rain can mix with the motor oil on the road and make things even slicker. Hydroplaning is a risk during any time the roads are slick and it doubles when there is reckless driving happening. To prevent it the easiest thing to do is drive slowly and gently apply breaks rather than hitting them.

Potholes or Cracks

It is likely you’ve come across a pothole on your travels. Striking a bad pothole could easily burst a tire, causing a rollover or another car accident. Just like uneven shoulders can pull at the tires of a vehicle and force it off the road. It is the city’s duty to make sure that the roads are maintained as it prevents major potholes or cracks from forming and causing accidents to happen.

No matter what is on the road, a roadway hazard can have consequences. That is why if you or a loved one have been injured while on the road you should talk to Memphis car accident lawyer to see what they can do for you. Call Patterson Bray today to learn more.

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   Nancy Wallace 
 8 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. If you are looking to do estate planning, go with Patterson Bray! They are excellent to deal with!
  
 
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   Cheryl Adkins 
 9 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We loved the staff at Patterson Bray.  Everyone was very professional.  Judith was very thorough and explained everything extremely well.  We would recommend Patterson Bray to anyone.
  
 
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   Hailey Wade 
 33 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Patterson Bray PLLC did an excellent job with my grandmother's estate planning, and made everything easy to understand! She recommended them to a friend who went and is also very satisfied with their services.
  
 
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   Deb Clark 
 38 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My experience with this firm, particularly Judith Denham has been truly exceptional.  From the consultation to the finish, the attention to detail, listening and responding to my needs.  My documents were completed timely and professionally.  I highly recommend Patterson Bray.
  
 
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   Tanya White 
 38 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. PattersonBray Estate Planning was an incredible firm to work with setting up our Trust. Judith Denham was thorough, very smart, and personable as she patiently explained each part.  Gabby put together  a very professional beautiful binder for us to have, and has answered questions we have had since  then. I am so glad they were recommended to us, and we had them to walk us through this procedure.
  
 
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 39 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Patterson Bray did a great job with my mother's trust.
  
 
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 55 days ago
 
 
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 75 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Heath Taylor was a genuine joy to work with during my divorce: straight forward, professional, and knowledgeable. I do hope I never have the need to acquire more legal help, but if I do, he'll be my first call. Thank you for everything, Heath!!
  
 
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   Marva Johnson 
 81 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I FOUND PATTERSON BRAY AND JUDITH DENHAM TO BE PROFESSIONAL, VERY THOROUGH, AND PERSONAL. I DID NOT FEEL LIKE A CLIENT, BUT A PERSON. I AM SO IMPRESSED WITH THEM, ESPECIALLY JUDITH AND GABBY. VERY GRATEFUL FOR ASSISTANCE.
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   Pam Nicole 
 82 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We set up a trust with Judith, at Patterson Bray and we received excellent service. Everything was explained thoroughly and everyone was very friendly and professional. I would definitely use her and the firm again, if needed.

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What Are Common Roadway Hazards?

Bad Traffic

Reckless Drivers

Wet or Oily Roads

Potholes or Cracks

Patterson Bray

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Federal Rest Rules for Commercial Drivers

Legal Options After the Frayser Shooting

How do I ensure my child’s inheritance is protected from divorce?