Crashes in Road Construction Zones

Thursday, August 6, 2020

Crashes in Road Construction Zones

Written by Malman Law, reviewed by Steve J. Malman.

Although necessary, road construction zones are areas where many Americans lose their lives or sustain serious injuries each year. Many times, the accidents can be attributed to negligent drivers who do not use the proper caution that they should. 

Road construction is necessary to keep vehicles and drivers safe on the road. It allows for the expansion of highways and other changes to be made that make driving more convenient and less risky. However, construction zones are one of the most dangerous places for drivers. Most road work zones have a complicated web of signs, barrels, lane changes, and construction workers. There are also lane-shifts and closed lanes, which can make even familiar roadways confusing and dangerous for drivers. If you or someone you love was injured in a road construction zone crash, you need skilled personal injury lawyers on your side.

Road Construction Accidents by the Numbers

The statistics regarding injuries and deaths that occur from motor vehicle crashes in road construction zones are quite concerning. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) is responsible for reporting the number of deaths caused by accidents in construction and maintenance work zones. They found that:

• 27,037 individuals (about 773 per year) lost their lives in work zone crashes between 1982 and 2017
• In 2002, deaths peak at 1,186 people lost their lives in construction and maintenance zones 
• Between 2008-2014, the number of deaths declined steadily to an average of 591 
• Deaths increased to an average of 772 between 2015 and 2017

Many of these deaths could have been avoided if people were more careful driving in construction zones. Slowing down, driving without distractions, and being ready for any unexpected circumstances can help prevent deaths and injuries in construction zones. 

What Causes Accidents in Construction Zones?

When you hire personal injury attorneys to help you after an accident on a roadway work zone, they will investigate and determine what could have caused your accident. You do not need to figure it out yourself. However, here are a few reasons that motor vehicle accidents occur in construction zones:

• The reduction of lanes 
• Slower traffic
• Narrowing of lanes 
• Detours that cause drivers to get frustrated or confused
• Obstacles on the roadways 
• Distracted 
• Exceeding the adjusted speed limit for the construction zone
• Not keeping a proper lookout for dangers 

All of these reasons represent the negligence of drivers in construction zones. When their negligent actions cause injuries, they can be held liable in civil court for the damages they cause.

Turn to Experienced Personal Injury Lawyers for Help After Your Accident

Nearly all crashes in construction zones are preventable, but sadly many happen that lead to injuries and fatalities. If this happened to you, it is essential that you reach out to skilled personal injury lawyers as soon as possible. You only have a limited amount of time to exercise your legal rights. Once this deadline passes, you will have the legal right to pursue compensation for your claim.

Book your free no-obligation consultation with the seasoned personal injury attorneys at Malman Law today. Call (312) 629-0099 or use our online contact form.