How to Avoid Accidents When Passing Through Work Zones

by | Jan 23, 2018 | Motor Vehicle Accidents

Despite the traffic cones, flashing lights, and bold signage that crews use to warn approaching motorists of work zones, collisions remain common near construction sites. According to the Federal Highway Administration, there were nearly 100,000 crashes in work zones in 2015. Approximately 26 percent of these accidents caused bodily injury to at least one person.

If you were hurt in a collision with a reckless motorist who failed to slow down for road construction, you may be able to recover compensation for your damages. To find out if you have grounds for a claim, turn to The Downs Law Firm.

Ross Downs is a member of the Louisiana Trial Lawyers Association, as well as the Louisiana State and American Bar Associations. Call 318-284-8551 to schedule a free case evaluation with a car wreck attorney in Bastrop.

Read on to learn how you can avoid accidents in work zones:

  1. Plan Your Route

The Louisiana Department of Transportation & Development posts notices regarding lane and road closures all over the state. They also have a map detailing construction sites.

Check these websites before hitting the road so you can plan an alternate route as needed. At the end of the day, the only foolproof way to avoid a work zone crash is to avoid work zones.

  1. Slow Down

Always follow the posted speed limit when approaching construction, and always look for signs detailing the adjusted speed limits as you pass through it. Even if the cars ahead of you do not appear to be decelerating, you should prioritize safety over following the pack.

  1. Obey All Crew Members and Signage

The crew members directing traffic are doing so for your safety. Always obey their signals when passing through a work zone, and abide by any signs they have posted.

  1. Maintain Plenty of Stopping Distance

Roadwork is chaotic by nature, and visibility is often limited when passing through a construction site because of the congestion and equipment. Since you are probably unable to see anything besides the car just ahead, it’s essential to maintain a safe following distance. This will help prevent a rear-end collision should the vehicle in front of you stop short for any reason.

  1. Eliminate Distractions

Driving through a work zone or navigating a detour requires your full attention. Do not fall victim to common driving distractions like texting or eating when driving through construction.

  1. Plan Ahead

As soon as it becomes clear you are approaching roadwork, take the steps necessary to merge into the correct lane. Waiting until the last minute will force you to make sudden maneuvers or risky lane changes.

Unfortunately, you can follow all of the above tips and still end up in a devastating work zone collision. If you sustained injuries in a crash with a reckless or distracted driver, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Contact The Downs Law Firm today to discuss your case with a car wreck lawyer in Bastrop. Call 318-284-8551 to schedule a free consultation.