Road construction is common on all types of roads. While it’s obviously necessary, these situations can increase the risk of dangerous traffic collisions.
When a car accident in Washington D.C. happens in a work zone, determining liability and proving a claim for compensation can be difficult. If you’re injured in a work zone crash, taking the right steps can help protect your claim. Call us for a free consultation today.
Common Causes of Work Zone Auto Accidents
Work zone crashes can happen for many different reasons. Determining how the accident occurred is often the first step in knowing what to do next. Here are some of the common reasons these accidents occur:
Driver-Related Factors
When going through a construction area, unsafe driving habits can dramatically increase the likelihood of an accident. This includes speeding through work zones, where reduced speed limits are meant to account for narrower lanes and the presence of workers.
Distracted driving also prevents drivers from reacting in time to sudden changes. Aggressive lane changes in narrowed, congested lanes create additional risks for both vehicles and workers.
Construction-Related Factors
Sometimes, the configuration and safety measures of the work zone itself contribute to a collision. Putting out signs too late or unclear lane markings make it difficult for drivers to know where to go or when to slow down.
At night, inadequate lighting can hide lane shifts, cones, workers, and equipment until it’s too late. Improper placement of cones and barriers may direct drivers unsafely into other lanes or fail to protect nearby workers.
Environmental Factors
Work zones are especially vulnerable to adverse weather conditions. Heavy rain or high winds can reduce visibility, make signs harder to see, and even knock down barriers.
Recognizing what caused a work zone crash is essential for establishing fault and holding the right parties accountable.
Legal Challenges in Work Zone Accident Claims
Filing a personal injury claim after a construction zone accident can be more challenging than it is with normal car accidents. Understanding these challenges can help you know what to expect and why it’s so important to reach out to a Washington D.C. personal injury lawyer as soon as possible.
Government Immunity Issues
If the responsible party is a state or local agency, you may face government immunity laws that limit their liability or set strict requirements for bringing a claim. These exceptions can block lawsuits entirely unless you meet certain legal criteria.
Shortened Deadlines for Filing Claims
Claims against public entities often come with much shorter filing deadlines than standard personal injury lawsuits. If you miss the window or don’t file the right type of notice, you won’t be able to file a claim for compensation.
Difficulty Preserving Evidence
Evidence in a construction zone can disappear or change quickly. Cones might be moved, lanes could be remarked, or the construction zone could disappear altogether. This makes it difficult to preserve and collect evidence to show what caused the accident.
Need for Accident Reconstruction Experts
Because work zones often involve complex layouts with temporary lane changes and traffic controls, an accident reconstruction specialist is often needed to piece together exactly how the crash occurred.
The obstacles in these cases make quick investigation and strong legal representation critical for anyone injured in a work zone accident.
How a Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help After You’re Injured in a Work Zone Accident
Work zone accidents can be complicated, but that doesn’t mean you aren’t entitled to financial recovery for the losses you’re facing. Working with a lawyer is the best way to get everything you’re entitled to. Here’s how they can assist:
Investigating the Accident and Identifying All Liable Parties
An car accident attorney will investigate the accident to determine who the responsible party is. They’ll gather evidence to make this determination so you know how to move forward.
Obtaining Construction Zone Safety Records and Maintenance Logs
Work zones are subject to specific safety standards. Your lawyer can request records showing whether proper signs, barriers, lighting, and maintenance protocols were followed or if violations occurred.
Navigating Government Claims Procedures
If a public agency played a role in the unsafe condition or accident, your attorney can guide you through strict procedures and filing deadlines that apply to government claims.
Negotiating With Insurance Companies
Your lawyer will work to make sure all damages are documented and push back against insurers or attorneys attempting to downplay your losses. Having a skilled personal injury lawyer at your side can make a significant difference and level the playing field so you aren’t at a disadvantage when trying to get a settlement.
If you need help and are ready to get started, contact us today to schedule a free consultation with a personal injury lawyer.