Over the summer months, many will travel by car to their favorite vacation spots or to attend family reunions in distant towns or across state lines. Unfortunately, the journey there may not all be smooth sailing as roadside construction on highways and interstates is in full swing creating hazards for motorists and construction zone workers alike.
Liability in Work Zone Car Accidents
Every year, thousands of people are injured in work zone car accidents across the nation – drivers, passengers and road workers are all at risk. When people are injured, compensation for injuries may include more than one liable party:
- Drivers involved in a work zone accident are the most common at fault party. Drivers are responsible for considering the risks associated with driving in and around work areas and must adapt their driving as any reasonable person would do. If a driver fails to reduce speeds or does not remain focused to changes in the roadway or worker activity, they may be liable if an injury occurs.
- Construction workers may also be liable if an accident occurs because they do not perform their duties according to safety standards. An example includes a worker’s negligent operation of machinery, which unexpectedly impedes the roadway without warning; even the most cautious driver may end up getting hurt when the unexpected occurs in a work zone.
- Contractors, state and local governments that oversee a construction project can be at fault when they fail to take measures to ensure the safety of motorists. Inadequate signage, traffic controls, and lack of other warnings can present a serious danger to motorists.
- If machinery, equipment or vehicles break down or malfunction in a work zone when traffic is present, the manufacturer may also be liable if someone is injured as a result.
Experience Matters – Contact Our Car Accident Lawyers for Help!
It is important to determine who is responsible when someone is injured in a highway construction zone accident to pursue maximum compensation. Damages including medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages may be payable depending on the circumstances. Sometimes more than one party is at fault. When you are injured in a work zone accident, whether as a highway worker or motorist, it is very important to work with an experienced car accident and work injury lawyer. Contact the Davenport personal injury and workers’ compensation lawyers of McDonald, Woodward & Carlson PC for help today.