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How to Handle Accidents Inside Construction Zones

Jul 2, 2018 |

For all of us that live in Ohio, we know that it is always construction season. As a driver in Ohio, you have gotten great at dodging and weaving through construction zones and avoiding potholes, but have you thought about what to do if you are in an accident in a construction zone? Not only do construction zones merge traffic together, but they can also create new hazards on the road that drivers need to be aware of. Below we break down the basics on construction zone accidents.

Construction zone accidents can consist of the following, which can cause distracting or confusing situations:

  • Construction zone signs that are not properly placed according to regulations
  • Inadequate warnings about lane changes, detours, and equipment movement
  • Equipment problems that create road hazards such as tire blowouts, faulty dumping mechanisms, and oil leaks
  • Poorly secured loads that fall into traffic lanes
  • Incorrect speed limit postings
  • Weak or insufficient barriers and guardrails
  • Standing water that hides lane lines
  • Gravel on the roadway

What should I do once an accident has occurred?

The first thing you should do is assess the situation. Make sure that all parties involved are safe or determine if anyone needs medical attention. Next, call the appropriate emergency responders.

If the accident involves another vehicle, you will need to follow the typical auto accident procedures. For more information on this, refer to our blog on what do to after a car accident. At Bentoff & Duber our expertise includes simple and complex cases, working with insurance companies and uninsured motorists to aggressively pursue restitution for all elements of your case. Read more about our experience in these areas.

How can I prevent accidents from occurring?

Construction zones can add danger to driving and as always, all drivers need to be aware of their surroundings. You can strive to avoid accidents by doing the following:

  • Slow down to the posted speed limit. This is not only for your safety, but for the workers’ safety as well.
  • Plan ahead for construction zones and look out for signs stating traffic patterns are changing. Additionally, you can take an alternate route that will allow you to completely avoid traffic within construction zones. Community based traffic and navigation apps, like Waze, can help with this.
  • Stay alert during construction zones. Look for stopped traffic, falling objects or anything in the road ahead.

If you find yourself in this situation, the attorneys at Bentoff & Duber know the ins and outs of the legal system and the benefits that can cover your injuries surrounding car accident claims. 216-861-1234 or submit a contact form for a free consultation.

Injured during a motor vehicle accident?  Check out these other blogs on motor vehicles and accidents:

About the author: Brandon Duber, a Partner with Bentoff & Duber Co., LPA, is a lawyer with proven experience in the courtroom and expertise in the areas of workers’ compensation, criminal defense, personal injury and medical malpractice law. He received his B.A. from Skidmore College in Saratoga Springs, NY and his J.D. from The Case Western Reserve University School of Law in Cleveland, OH.