Common Factors that Lead to Car Accidents in Construction Zones

 Posted on March 31, 2021 in Blog Post

People often say that Illinois has two seasons, winter and construction. Roadwork is often necessary to repair damaged streets and highways that take a pounding in the winter. However, construction zones can prove dangerous for drivers. Studies show that rear-end collisions are the most common type of work zone accident involving vehicles. In addition, fatal work zone crashes occur most often in the summer and the fall. In many cases, they take place on roads with posted speed limits over 50 mph. Understanding traffic laws for work zones can help in pursuing compensation for car accidents that occur in them.

Dangerous Driving Behaviors

There are several factors that can increase the likelihood of a vehicle accident regardless of the time or location, including weather, traffic flow, driver error, and more. When certain driving lanes are closed and routes are detoured, this can cause confusion for motorists. They may find themselves driving in unfamiliar territory and unsure of their surroundings. An abrupt change in the speed limit, as well as reduced or narrowed lanes for a sudden change in the traffic pattern can all contribute to colliding with other vehicles, concrete medians, or construction trucks, equipment, and workers.

Some of the typical issues that may result in a collision in a work zone include:

• Distracted driving: When drivers take their eyes off the road even for a split second, it greatly reduces their reaction time. This means if the car in front of them suddenly puts on the brakes, they may not have enough time to stop before hitting them. Distractions behind the wheel may involve texting or talking on a mobile phone, applying makeup, eating, and talking to passengers.
• Driving under the influence (DUI): Consuming alcohol or using illicit drugs before operating a motor vehicle can lead to devastating consequences. A person’s reasoning and judgment skills are significantly impaired, which can make it extremely difficult to navigate around construction zones.
• Speeding: Traveling too fast for the conditions is never a good idea. In a construction zone, there may be even less room for error. Work zones often have limited space since they may direct traffic through only one lane and without a shoulder area. Driving over the posted speed limit can be a recipe for disaster since a sudden curve or turn may cause the vehicle to flip and roll over.
• Improper signage: When roadways are being repaired, there is usually a lot of signage to warn motorists of upcoming changes in the speed limit, lanes, or a new route. At night, it can be challenging to see these signs if they are not properly positioned or the work zone does not have adequate lighting.
• Drowsy driving: Fatigued drivers may nod off and fall asleep at the wheel for a few seconds. Once they open their eyes, they may find themselves swerving into oncoming traffic or striking traffic cones, medians, or construction zone workers.

As shown, negligence in car accidents can take various forms. Other drivers, civil engineers, municipalities, or construction companies may all have acted recklessly. Debris left in the road can be very hazardous if motorists strike it. In addition, vehicle manufacturers can even be held liable if they installed faulty equipment or parts, which caused a crash.

Contact a Park Ridge Personal Injury Attorney

Construction zones can be difficult to navigate under certain circumstances. In some cases, drivers who are not paying attention or who are speeding can cause serious crashes in these areas. If you or your loved one was hurt in a car accident in a work zone, your injuries may be life-altering. Attorney Patrick Quinn of Quinn Law Group, LLC understands the financial repercussions, such as costly medical bills and lost income. As an accomplished Glenview personal injury lawyer, he will carefully review the details of your collision and fight for your rights to fair compensation. Call us today at 847-232-7180 to schedule a free consultation.

Sources:

https://safety.fhwa.dot.gov/wz/resources/fhwasa03012/

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/fulltext.asp?DocName=062500050K11-401