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The Danger of Construction Zone Accidents

By stladmin on October 10, 2022

Construction zones are a real hassle for drivers, especially when they’re working on a highway you use to get to work every day. Work zones are also dangerous. In a recent year over 44,000 people were injured in construction zone accidents according to the National Safety Council.

A work zone is a confined space, and everyone needs to relax and adjust their behavior. To help prevent accidents, penalties for speeding are increased in traffic zones. And traffic signs must be present and clearly visible.

When drivers get frustrated, it can cause collisions that harm road workers and other drivers. It’s also important for construction companies to have safe policies that prevent unnecessary hazards.

Construction Zones Hazards

Road work is a part of life. Sooner or later, roads are going to wear down. Safe roads without potholes and other defects make it a lot easier for everyone to get around.

It’s inevitable that roads in Wyoming are going to require service now and then. But it’s also essential to provide these necessary improvements as safely as possible. When construction zones are poorly designed, it can lead to accidents. These areas also need to be well-maintained and free of hazards.

Companies that do road work are being paid to provide an important service, and they’re responsible for making sure that traffic keeps flowing safely. When they act recklessly or make mistakes, people get hurt. Negligent construction company practices that cause construction zone accidents include:

• Poorly marked temporary lanes
• Objects falling on vehicles
• Heavy machinery operating inside the traffic area
• Hazards such as potholes, obstructions, and drop-offs
• Equipment left in the roadway
• Failure to mark hazards by using cones, barriers, or hazard lights
• Inadequate construction zone design
• Inaccurate or poorly visible road signs
• Failure to adequately light roadway at night
• Faulty traffic control or improper directions

When Other Drivers Cause Accidents

Careless drivers are a major cause of construction zone accidents. Many drivers refuse to slow down as they’re entering a work zone or neglect to follow the posted speed limits. It’s also important for everyone to watch out for the flaggers who direct traffic and follow their instructions.

The most common types of accidents in work zones are sideswipes and rear-end accidents. These crashes occur when drivers follow other cars too closely or fail to adjust to merging lanes. Dangerous driver behavior that contributes to work zone crashes includes:

• Speeding
• Distracted driving
• Tailgating
• DUI
• Failure to merge
• Ignoring traffic signs

Collecting Damages for Work Zone Accident Injuries

Even when you’re driving safely and following the rules, you can still be harmed by another person’s reckless behavior. With Wyoming’s modified comparative fault laws, you are entitled to collect damages from anyone whose negligent behavior contributes to an accident.

If you were harmed in a Campbell County work zone crash, your Gillette personal injury attorney will investigate the incident to find out who’s responsible for the accident. Then your attorney will file a claim against the insurance company to help you recover your medical costs and other expenses caused by the accident. Liable parties may include:

• Workers, managers, and construction company owners
• Drivers who disobey traffic laws
• Government agencies and employees
• Manufacturers of faulty equipment

Traffic Zone Accident Injuries

The combination of heavy equipment, reduced lanes, and restless drivers in a hurry can have catastrophic consequences. Gillette work zone accidents may cause devastating injuries and other horrible consequences such as:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Bone fractures
• Internal bleeding
• Paralysis
• Loss of limb
• Severe burns
• Internal organ damage
• Wrongful death

Were You Harmed in a Gillette Construction Zone Accident?

You shouldn’t have to pay your own medical expenses for injuries caused by someone else’s careless behavior. But insurance companies are always trying to save money, and they won’t offer you fair compensation if you don’t have an experienced Campbell County car accident lawyer by your side.

At Steven Titus & Associates, P.C., we know how to get you a fair settlement. This includes compensation for the following types of expenses:

• Current and future medical expenses
• Loss of income
• In-home care
• Impairment, disfigurement, and scarring
• Reduced earning potential
• Pain and suffering

Call (307) 257-7800 to schedule a FREE consultation today. You won’t owe us anything unless we win you a settlement.