Risks in Road Work Zones

Thursday, May 13, 2021

Risks in Road Work Zones

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

Road work zones are a necessary part of maintaining Chicago’s infrastructure. However, far too often, they become places of injury and even fatality due to various factors. Many risks exist in road work zones. Everyone needs to be aware of them and take action to prevent any increased risks.

If you’ve lived in Chicago for very long, you know that no sooner does the weather improve in the spring than the orange cones find a home on the road. Although construction zones can be highly irritating, causing slow traffic and confusing or lengthy detours, they are necessary. Between harsh weather and millions of vehicles on the road each year, Chicago’s roads and freeways take a beating. When the weather is nicer, it’s an ideal time for many municipalities to give these roads some much-needed TLC. Everyone who works in or drives near these zones needs to be vigilant in decreasing any injury or fatality risks. If you or someone close to you was injured or killed at a road construction site, it’s time to meet with a skilled Chicago car accident lawyer at Malman Law.

Dangerous Road Work Zones

Auto accidents are common in road work zones. Unfortunately, they are often a drivers’ fault. When in construction zones, many motorists aren’t as cautious as they should be. They fail to adhere to laws that are intended to keep them, other motorists, and construction crews safe. It’s essential to note that not every highway work zone accident is a motorists’ fault. Construction zone workers are sometimes careless and can cause accidents as well.

Common dangers of highway work zones include:

1. Inadequate signs or warnings
2. Uneven roadways or shoulders
3. Construction debris in the road
4. Workers on, near, or too close to the road
5. Construction vehicles that come onto or near the road
6. Traffic congestions due to reduced lanes and/or lack of road outlet
7. Personnel working at night without reflective gear
8. Construction equipment on or near the road
9. Unpredictable lane changes or detours
10. Other motorists speeding in work zones

The ways in which workers and drivers handle these dangers can lead to accidents. Suppose workers don’t act to prevent the dangerous conditions they have control over. In that case, their carelessness and negligence could likely lead to an accident. Other drivers who don’t acknowledge the possibility of these risks increase the likelihood of motor vehicle collisions and other accidents in highway work zones. 

When you hire a knowledgeable Chicago car accident lawyer, they can investigate the cause of your accident. Their investigation will help determine who should be held liable for your damages.  

Get the Legal Help You Need From an Experienced Chicago Car Accident Lawyer 

If you were hurt in a road construction zone accident, don’t hesitate to seek legal advice from our experienced Chicago car accident attorneys at Malman Law. We are ready and have the resources to help you with your case no matter who caused the accident. We are well-versed in handling insurance claims and aren’t afraid to litigate claims if we need to. We will fight to obtain the maximum compensation possible for you under Illinois law. You can schedule a no-obligation consultation by calling (312) 629-0099 today or using our online contact form.