Summer means warmer weather, longer days, and unfortunately, road closures and construction zones popping up everywhere. While these road work projects aim to improve our infrastructure, they pose serious risks to workers and drivers. Accidents in these zones can lead to severe injuries and life-altering consequences.
If you’ve been injured in a summer road work zone, understanding the risks and knowing how to protect your rights is essential.
Why Is Summer Road Work More Dangerous?
Summer is prime time for road maintenance and construction because of the favorable weather conditions. However, this seasonal surge in activity also makes it one of the most perilous times of the year for workers and drivers. Here’s why summer road work zones are particularly hazardous:
1. Increased Traffic Volume
Summer brings tourism, road trips, and family vacations, increasing the number of vehicles on the road. More drivers mean more congestion, particularly near construction zones where lanes may be reduced. With so many vehicles in close quarters, the odds of accidents rise significantly.
2. Distracted Driving
Unfortunately, not all drivers pay attention to the road work signs. Whether they’re distracted by GPS directions, texting, or simply zoning out, inattentive drivers are a common cause of collisions in construction zones.
3. Reduced Space for Maneuvering
Construction zones often reduce lanes, make them narrower, or reroute traffic altogether. These tight spaces can be confusing and stressful, especially for drivers unfamiliar with the area. This setup leaves little room for error, making crashes more likely.
4. Speeding in Work Zones
Despite clearly posted signs, many drivers fail to slow down in work zones. Speeding not only endangers the lives of workers but also makes it harder for drivers to react to sudden changes, like a worker stepping into the roadway or a slowing vehicle ahead.
5. Intense Summer Heat
High summer temperatures can affect everyone on the road. For workers, the heat creates physical strain, increasing the likelihood of mistakes or accidents. For drivers, heat can lead to vehicle issues like tire blowouts and driver fatigue, which impairs reaction times.
6. Night Work Hazards
Many road projects occur at night to minimize daytime traffic congestion. While this reduces daytime delays, it also introduces new dangers like poor visibility and higher risks of fatigued driving.
Risks for Workers and Drivers in Construction Zones
Accidents in construction zones are a growing concern for crew members and motorists. The consequences can be particularly severe due to heavy machinery, tight spaces, and the presence of vulnerable workers on foot.
Hazards Faced by Workers
- Struck-By Accidents: Workers face the constant threat of being hit by vehicles, work trucks, or heavy machinery.
- Falls: Uneven terrain, open trenches, and cluttered work areas increase the risk of falls.
- Equipment Failure: Malfunctioning machinery or tools can lead to serious injuries, from crushed limbs to fatal accidents.
Hazards Faced by Drivers
- Rear-End Collisions: Sudden stops or slowed traffic in construction zones often lead to rear-end crashes.
- Debris on the Road: Loose gravel, tools, or other materials left in the roadway can puncture tires, break windshields, or cause vehicles to lose control.
- Confusing Signage: Misdirected or insufficient signage can lead to confusion, causing drivers to make dangerous maneuvers.
What to Do if You’re Injured in a Construction Zone
If an accident in a road work zone has injured you, it’s important to take steps to protect your health and legal rights. Here’s what to do:
1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Your health comes first. Even if your injuries seem minor, get checked by a medical professional. Internal injuries or concussions might not show symptoms right away but can be serious if left untreated.
2. Document the Incident
Take photos of the scene, your injuries, the vehicles involved, and any road work signs or obstructions, if possible. These images can serve as crucial evidence later on.
3. File a Police Report
Please report the accident to law enforcement. A police report can provide an official record, which will be invaluable in any potential legal case.
4. Avoid Admitting Fault
When speaking to other drivers, workers, or insurance adjusters, stick to the facts. Avoid making statements like, “It was my fault,” as this can complicate your claim.
5. Contact a Personal Injury Attorney
Navigating a construction zone accident claim can be complicated. A lawyer with experience in handling work zone cases can provide the guidance and advocacy you need to seek compensation.
How a Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help
Accidents in road work zones often involve multiple parties, such as construction companies, government agencies, or contractors. A personal injury attorney can help untangle the complexities and ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
1. Determining Liability
A thorough investigation is sometimes necessary to identify who was at fault. Was it driver negligence? Poor road maintenance? Faulty equipment? Determining liability is key to building a strong case.
2. Dealing With Insurance Companies
Insurance adjusters may offer a lowball settlement to quickly resolve your case. A lawyer can negotiate on your behalf to secure a fair amount that covers all your losses, from medical bills to lost wages.
3. Handling Complex Regulations
Work zone accidents often fall under both personal injury and workplace laws. An attorney familiar with these cases will understand how to handle overlapping regulations and ensure nothing gets overlooked.
4. Seeking Maximum Compensation
A lawyer will go beyond immediate medical expenses, factoring in your long-term costs for rehabilitation, emotional suffering, and any permanent impairments caused by the accident.
Preventing Construction Zone Accidents
While it’s not always possible to avoid accidents, you can take steps to protect yourself and others when navigating construction zones.
For Drivers
- Slow down and obey all posted signs.
- Stay focused and avoid distractions like texting or changing music.
- Maintain a safe following distance.
- Be cautious around workers and machinery.
For Workers
- Wear high-visibility clothing and personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Stay aware of your surroundings and avoid standing near active equipment.
- Follow proper safety protocols and training guidelines.
Savannah Workers’ Compensation Lawyer
If you or a loved one have been affected by a personal injury related to roadway construction, Craig Injury Law in Marietta, GA is here to support you. Our team is dedicated to ensuring that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve. We invite you to contact us today at (912) 304-5202 for a consultation to discuss your case in detail. Let us help you navigate the legal landscape with confidence and security.