Despite strict traffic regulations, construction zones are one of the most dangerous areas on a road. In the most recent year for which statistics are available, 754 people were killed in U.S. work zone crashes, as reported by the Work Zone Safety Information Clearinghouse. Among these accidents, there were 203 fatal wrecks involving large commercial trucks, and a total of 122 pedestrians and 124 construction workers were killed. In California alone, 65 people were killed in 56 fatal car accidents in construction zones in a single recent year.
Who Could Be Liable for a Construction Zone Car Accident?
Many construction zone accidents are caused by negligent drivers who fail to follow the rules of the road. Whether it is stricter speed limits or additional traffic signs, drivers should always obey the safety measures of a work zone, both for the safety of construction workers and other drivers. Any type of negligent driving, from texting to consuming alcohol, can result in catastrophic auto accidents. If a reckless driver disobeyed the posted traffic laws in a construction zone, they can be held liable for the damages they cause.
In addition to other drivers, the construction company overseeing the work zone can be held at fault. OSHA outlines numerous safety procedures and regulations to keep construction workers and drivers safe when passing through a work zone. When construction companies cut corners to get around these rules, they put multiple people in danger, including their own workers. This is often why construction on freeways takes so long: supervisors and workers move at a steady pace to ensure that all parties are safe throughout the entire process. But if equipment is left in the road or traffic signs are not updated, then these negligent actions can result in a car accident. As a result, a construction company can be held liable for any damages that their negligence caused.
How Do You File a Claim After a Car Accident in a Construction Zone?
Besides receiving medical care, it is imperative that you exchange insurance information with other drivers during a car accident. This allows you to determine which insurance company and policy you can file your claim against. If the accident was due to construction equipment or other negligence on the part of the construction company, you will want to contact the job site’s foreman or supervisor to get the insurance information, if you are able.
In addition to figuring out what insurance company you will make a claim with, you will also want to file a police report, contact your own insurance company, calculate the amount of damages you wish to pursue, and collect the contact information of any witnesses who saw the accident. Each step in this process is invaluable in supporting your personal injury claim. At this point, you will also want to a contact a personal injury attorney to begin the legal process for your claim.
Why You Need a Lawyer
While we witness the aftermath of accidents every day during our commute, we often do not account for the long-term costs, both financial and emotional, of a car accident. But construction zones combine the worst aspects of a busy freeway or road with the heavy equipment of a job site. These accidents can be devastating, resulting in severe injuries, thousands of dollars in property damage, and even death.
After an accident, you may feel depressed or angry about this horrible event. This, added with the stress of medical costs, can put a huge strain on your life. You may not wish to worry about legal matters, but contacting an experienced attorney can actually be a huge relief for you. Auto accident attorneys can help prepare your case, collect evidence and witness statements, calculate both economic and non-economic damages, and fight on your behalf in negotiations or at a trial. If you were injured a car accident at an Orange County construction zone, then do not hesitate to contact the legal team at Allen Flatt Ballidis & Leslie. Call us at (949) 752-7474 to schedule a free consultation.