No one likes being stuck in a road construction zone but the inconvenience of being forced to do so can be put into perspective when you consider how common accidents are when people do not follow the rules. Keep reading to find out why accidents are so common in these zones – then learn how you can help reduce your chances of being involved in this type of accident. If you have already been in an accident in a work zone, contact Law Offices of Fernando D. Vargas at 909-982-0707 for a free legal consultation.
Dangers Inherent in Construction and Work Zones
There are unique hazards in construction and work zones. For example, there are often changes in traffic patterns and speeds compared to the typical rules. Lanes are often narrowed during construction, speed bumps are often installed, there are sometimes speed ledges, and drop-offs are common. There can be construction-related obstacles in the roads too, such as cones, signs, loose debris, and construction machines.
In addition to these somewhat obvious hazards, there are often less obvious ones. For example, the surface may be uneven, the lighting may be poor, or there could be holes for utility access. Workers generally do their best to make sure drivers are aware of these issues but it is not uncommon for a driver to be caught unaware.
Finally, consider that other drivers on the road can be difficult in construction zones. They may be impatient and ignore posted speed limit signs. They may try to pass when there is not enough room to pass. While it is always wise to be aware not just of your actions but the actions of those around you if you want to avoid a car accident, this is even truer in a construction zone.
Just How Dangerous Are Construction Zones?
You may wonder: Are construction zones really that more dangerous than your average street or highway? According to the statistics, yes – they are. Construction zones on the highway make up for about 24% of congestion and construction zones on streets make up about 10% of overall traffic congestion.
Further, the Federal Highway Administration has reported that the number of fatal construction zone accidents is increasing. In just 2017, there were nearly 800 deaths in construction zone vehicle accidents. Most of those were either drivers or passengers in vehicles and speeding was a factor in almost 33% of them.
If you have been injured in a construction zone accident, there are many different parties who may be partially or wholly at fault. Consult with a personal injury attorney by contacting Law Offices of Fernando D. Vargas at 909-982-0707 to request a free legal consultation. We are standing by to help you better understand your options.
