PITTSBURGH — A motorcyclist claims the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation left a hazardous condition on the roadway during a maintenance project without any warning to motorists which caused his injuries.
Kevin Coughey and Joan Coughey filed a complaint June 24 in the Court of Common Pleas of Allegheny County against the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation alleging negligence.
The plaintiffs claim that on July 13, 2020, Kevin Coughey was riding his motorcycle on Library Road in Bethal Park and turning onto Stoltz Road. They allege that his motorcycle suddenly came into contact with loose oil and chips that spanned the entire width of the roadway, which caused him to "violently" slide across the pavement.
The plaintiffs claim that as a result of the accident, Kevin Coughey suffered a rib fracture, chest contusion, road rash and a kidney injury. They further claim that signage on the road announced that the oil and chips resurfacing project would begin soon, but the road work had already begun without a change to the signage.
The Cougheys allege the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation's negligence for failing to oversee and inspect the roadway for obstructions, defects or maintenance issues that would cause risk to travelers. They also allege the defendant failed to have any warning to motorists about the loose chips or provide a detour route to avoid the dangerous condition.
The Cougheys seek monetary relief, interest, trial by jury and all other just relief. They are represented by Ian Watt of Friday & Cox LLC in Pittsburgh.