Why Car Accident in Construction Zones Increased ?

Car accidents have surged in U.S. construction zones in recent years. Government statistics show that from 2013 to 2023, crash deaths increased by nearly 50 percent, rising from 603 fatalities in 2013 to 898 in 2023. This alarming trend, accompanied by an upward rise in injuries, highlights the increasing dangers around highway projects for drivers and workers alike.

Key Causes

The surge is primarily due to federal infrastructure investments. Currently, there is more road construction underway than at any time in the past two decades. This causes more lane closures, detours, and traffic bottlenecks that drivers often fail to navigate safely.

Other common causes include:

• Speeding and distraction: Impatience, smartphones, and GPS adjustments cause drivers to ignore lower speed limits and safety warnings.

• Narrowed lanes and poor visibility: Reduced lane width, dim nighttime lighting, and insufficient signage contribute to sudden braking and sideswipes.

• Heavy trucks and blind spots: Large trucks are involved in nearly one-third of fatal work zone crashes, especially on interstates.

• Worker proximity to traffic: Construction teams often operate within a few feet of fast-moving vehicles, leaving no margin for driver error.

State Laws and Penalties

Every state raises penalties for speeding or reckless driving in work zones, though the specific laws differ:

• California: Fines can exceed $600 for speeding. Additional DMV points are also applied. Seriously injuring or killing a worker can lead to felony criminal charges (e.g., vehicular manslaughter) in addition to civil liability.

• Texas: Fines double when workers are present and can reach $2,000 or more, depending on the violation.

• Florida: Drivers face double fines only when workers are present or operating equipment on or immediately adjacent to the roadway. Reckless driving may bring criminal charges.

• New York: Speeding fines double in work zones. A second conviction within 18 months can lead to a license suspension.

These penalties aim to slow down traffic and give construction crews a safer workspace.

Injuries to Drivers and Workers

Work zones frequently place workers close to high-speed traffic, often separated only by cones or barrels, leaving little protection. Crashes in these areas cause severe, high-impact injuries.

Common Driver and Passenger Injuries

Injuries result mainly from collisions with other vehicles, barriers, or equipment:

• Broken Bones and Fractures

• Head Trauma and Concussions

• Spinal Cord Injuries

• Whiplash and Soft Tissue Damage

• Burns

Common Construction Workers Injuries

Construction personnel face direct risks from traffic and heavy machinery, which increase at night or in bad weather.

• Struck-by Injuries: Being hit by a passing vehicle is the most common cause of worker fatality.

• Crush Injuries

• Falls: Falling from heights or into excavation areas.

• Burns and Electrocution

Rights After a Construction Zone Accident

Attorney J.J. Dominguez of The Dominguez Firm explains your rights if you are injured:

"For injured drivers, you may be able to recover compensation from a negligent driver, the construction company, or a government agency that failed to manage the site properly."

He continued, "For injured site workers, state workers’ compensation provides benefits for medical care and wage losses. A third-party injury claim might also be possible if another driver or contractor caused the crash. The first step is to consult with an experienced car accident attorney immediately."

Safety Requires Shared Responsibility Around Work Zones

Motorists should slow down, avoid distractions, and maintain safe distance from other vehicles and workers. Construction crews can reduce risk by improving lighting, using reflective gear, and ensuring proper placement of barriers and warning signs.

Construction zone accidents are preventable. If we avoid distracted driving, speeding, and poor signage, we should be able to reverse this current spike. Slowing down and staying alert in these high-risk areas can help protect us all.