Who Is Liable for Accidents Caused by I-294 Ramp Closures?

 Posted on December 23, 2024 in Construction accidents

The Illinois Tollway is undergoing construction and maintenance this winter as weather permits. Road maintenance is vital for the ongoing safety of motorists. However, lane shifts, ramp rerouting or closures, and temporary lane closures can be confusing. A disruption in normal traffic patterns often leads to car crashes.

If you are injured in an auto collision in a construction zone, you might be wondering who is liable for your damages or whether these types of cases can be difficult to win. A Park Ridge, IL personal injury lawyer can work to ensure you get the full compensation you deserve.

What Construction Is Expected on the Tollway This Winter?

Extensive work on the Tollway is expected to last until spring 2025, with overnight closures, new traffic patterns, ramp rerouting, and detours anticipated. Planned improvements include:

• Protective shielding and noise wall work

• Roadway lighting work

• Pavement repair

• Bridge reconstruction

Electronic messages and construction signs should notify motorists of upcoming lane and ramp closures, lane shifts, and detours. Most work is expected to be performed overnight, stopping before the morning rush hour.

Why Do Road Construction Zones Cause Accidents?

When motorists drive the same route daily, they become accustomed to it and often anticipate things like when to get into the right-hand lane for their exit, speed limit changes, traffic patterns, and which lane to use. These drivers often pay less attention to their routes than others who travel the road less frequently, making them more likely to overlook signage about changes.

Other common causes of road construction accidents include:

• Construction equipment and trucks causing visibility issues or crashing into vehicles

• Debris on roadways

• Lack of adequate signage

• Insufficient lighting

• Uneven road surfaces

• Driver errors, such as speeding, tailgating, distractions, failing to reduce speed or move over, and drinking while driving

Because much of this work should be done at night, driver fatigue may add to the confusion and increase the likelihood of crashes.

Who Is Liable for Road Construction Crashes?

The circumstances surrounding a specific accident determine who is at fault. Potentially liable parties include:

• Drivers

• Road construction companies and crews

• The government entity responsible for the construction and coordination of the project

• Law enforcement officers who do not coordinate lane and ramp closures effectively

• Equipment manufacturers and mechanics

• Electronic message errors, whether due to faulty equipment or inaccurate information

Your lawyer will investigate your construction zone accident, looking for all contributing factors. After identifying the liable party or parties, we will work diligently to maximize your compensation, always focusing on protecting your best interests.

Request Your Free Case Evaluation With Our Dedicated Glenview, IL Car Accident Attorney

At Quinn Law Group, LLC, we hope you remain safe as you travel through construction zones this winter. However, we are ready to assist if you are injured in a crash. Contact us online or call 847-232-7180 to speak with our determined Des Plaines, IL personal injury lawyer.