Construction zones can be dangerous areas to work and drive in. Motorists may not expect sudden road changes or adjust their speeds accordingly. Construction zones can change the usual rules that apply to traffic flow and could involve various parties, making it more difficult to determine liability. Below, we discuss what causes construction zone accidents, who can be responsible for these accidents, and how a San Antonio construction accident lawyer can help.
Common Causes of Construction Zone Accidents
Construction zone accidents can occur for various reasons, including the following:
- Distractions: Drivers may be texting while driving, using their mobile devices, eating or drinking, talking to passengers, or doing other things other than focusing on the road. These distractions can delay a driver’s response to hazards such as stopped or slowed traffic, the presence of work crews or heavy equipment, or narrowed lanes, making a crash more likely to occur.
- Speeding: Drivers may be accustomed to traveling on the roadway at a certain speed and not notice signs that require them to drastically reduce their speed. When drivers speed, they have less time to respond to hazards.
- Unsafe road conditions: Roads may be under repair because they have potholes, faded markings, or other issues that compromise safety.
- Careless driving: Construction zone accidents can occur because drivers make unsafe passes, don’t pay attention, or make careless decisions.
- Inadequate signage: Motor vehicle accidents can also occur when proper signage or barricades are not erected, traffic control devices do not work, or proper warnings are not posted.
Understanding the causes that contributed to the accident can help identify the party or parties responsible for it.
Who Is Responsible for a Construction Zone Accident?
Determining liability for a construction zone accident can be complex. Construction projects often require temporary changes to roadways, such as narrowed or closed lanes. The parties who might be responsible for a construction zone accident could include:
- Construction company: The construction company could be responsible for accidents that occur due to dangerous conditions they create. Construction companies are also responsible for the negligent actions of their employees.
- Government agency: The government agency that commissioned the work could be responsible for these accidents. It might be responsible for providing clear signage, barriers, and traffic control devices to help prevent construction zone accidents.
- Other motorists: Motorists are required to obey all posted signs and directions from those regulating traffic. They can be held responsible for accidents that occur when they fail to follow them.
- Manufacturers: If defective construction equipment contributed to the accident, its manufacturer could be responsible for the accident.
An experienced San Antonio personal injury attorney can investigate the case and gather evidence to establish liability.
Contact George Salinas Injury Lawyers for Help with Your Personal Injury Claim
If you were injured in a construction zone accident, George Salinas Injury Lawyers can help investigate your case, determine who is responsible, and fight for the compensation you deserve. Call us today for a free case review to learn about your legal rights and options.