Construction zones can be dangerous for drivers and workers alike. Following construction zone signs and traffic guidance is key to avoiding accidents. Here’s what you should know about car accidents in construction zones.
Common causes of construction zone accidents
Construction zone accidents can be caused by many factors, including:
- Reduction of lanes and slower traffic
- Speeding
- Narrow lanes
- Confusing detours or instructions
- Obstacles in the roadway
- Bad weather or poor visibility
Vehicle accidents
If you’re injured in a construction zone vehicle accident, you may be able to recover compensation for your injuries. If another driver’s negligent actions in a construction zone caused the accident, you can file a claim against them.
In some cases, the construction firm or government may be responsible for causing accidents. This can occur when there are inadequate warning signs or unmarked road hazards which cause injury to drivers. In rare cases, drivers have been injured by falling equipment or materials.
Worker accidents
If you’re a construction worker injured on the job, you’re entitled to file for workers’ compensation benefits. Workers’ compensation covers most on-the-job injuries, even if they were due to a driver’s negligence. However, those benefits may not be sufficient to cover all of your expenses.
Construction workers may also be able to file a third-party personal injury claim against negligent drivers, in addition to their workers’ compensation claim. This allows plaintiffs to collect additional damages not available under a no-fault workers’ compensation claim.
Ultimately, the best way to prevent accidents is to stay alert, aware and obey all traffic signs. Drivers should reduce their speed and keep a safe distance from other vehicles, equipment, barriers and workers on the road.
If you’ve been injured in an construction zone car accident, talk to a knowledgeable Bradenton, FL accident attorney at Goldman, Babboni, Fernandez, Murphy & Walsh today.