Road Construction Zone Dangers and Safety Tips
Road construction work zones are among the most dangerous places to drive. In a recent year, 954 people were killed, and 42,151 were injured in work zone crashes, as reported by the National Safety Council (NSC). Fatalities in work zones occur among:
- Drivers of motor vehicles (66%)
- Pedestrians (17%)
- Passengers in motor vehicles (16%)
- Bicyclists (1%)
Construction zones obstruct normal traffic flow. They can be hazardous places, particularly if proper safety measures are not taken. Improper signage, uneven pavement, sharp turns, inadequate lighting, and drivers who ignore speed limits and safety rules can cause deadly accidents in construction zones.
How Should Construction Zones Be Set Up?
Road construction companies must meet certain requirements in setting up work zones to help prevent accidents. Construction zones should be well marked with sufficient warning of lane changes and closures. There should be no slippery spilled substances or construction debris blocking lanes of traffic. Correct speed limit signs should be posted, and sufficient lane markers and edge lines should be provided. Construction equipment should not be blocking the roadway, leading to delays and illegal passing.
How Do Accidents Happen in Road Construction Zones?
A variety of factors can contribute to accidents in construction zones. When a crash occurs, liable parties may include:
- Negligent construction companies that fail to follow safety regulations, post proper signage, or take necessary measures to protect motorists, pedestrians, and workers
- Government agencies that fail to properly oversee construction companies and projects
- Drivers who are careless, distracted, speeding, impaired, or otherwise fail to follow the rules of the road in construction zones
What Safety Tips Should You Follow in Construction Zones?
The following tips can help you stay safe while traveling through work zones:
- Plan ahead: Research your route before you set out. Use available detours to avoid work zones as much as possible.
- Stay focused: It is always important to keep your eyes on the road, your hands on the wheel, and your attention on driving, particularly in construction zones. Look for signs that indicate reduced speeds, lane changes, and other information. Avoid distractions.
- Slow down: Reduced speeds, lane closures, and shifts in traffic patterns are common in work zones. Slow down when you enter and be alert for road workers.
- Move into open lanes as soon as possible: When traffic shifts, check your blind spots and move into the open lane as soon as you are clear to do so.
- Do not tailgate: Maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead. Rear-end collisions are common in construction zones.
What Forms of Compensation Are Available for Long Beach Construction Zone Accidents?
If you have been injured in a Long Beach construction zone accident that was someone else’s fault, you may be entitled to recover compensation from the at-fault party or that party’s insurance company. Your personal injury lawyer can investigate your accident to determine fault and liability and accurately calculate the full extent of your damages. Depending on the circumstances and the nature and severity of your injuries, you may be eligible to claim past and future medical expenses, rehabilitation, lost wages or earnings, loss of future earning potential, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and other losses.
Call Today for a FREE Consultation— Let’s See How We Can Help
At The Law Firm of Joseph H. Low IV, we provide superior legal representation in personal injury matters. Our Long Beach legal team believes negligent individuals and companies should be held accountable for their actions, and we are relentless when pursuing compensation for our clients.
Head attorney Joseph Low is, first and foremost, a trial lawyer who has tried cases in 14 states and is rated 10.0 Superb by Avvo.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a road construction zone accident, contact a Long Beach car accident attorney at (562) 901-0840 to schedule a free consultation today.