Construction Crew Errors When Directing Traffic in Road Work Zones
We have all driven through construction zones that limit the flow of traffic. Whether a two-lane road narrows down to one lane, or traffic traveling opposing directions must share a single lane, there are risks that come with diverting traffic from its usual path. In many situations, road crews are responsible for informing drivers of upcoming shifts in the road and properly directing traffic to prevent accidents.
Unfortunately, road construction workers might not follow the rules and fail to adhere to safety standards, which can cause drivers to crash. If you think that your accident and injuries happened because a construction crew did not do its job directing traffic, you should speak with an experienced Salina car accident lawyer about your rights.
Directing Traffic through Work Zones
There are rules to protect both construction workers from negligent drivers. There are many laws and safety rules for people driving through road work zones who are also at higher risk to crash. The traffic might shift suddenly, as drivers react based on their expectations. Signs must be obvious and easy to understand. How traffic is regulated is governed by laws and accepted safety rules.
Construction crews often direct traffic in different ways, including:
- Posting clear and visible signs far enough in advance that warn drivers of upcoming shifts in traffic
- Using cones, barrels, and other roadblocks to ensure drivers stay on designated areas of road
- Having workers with signs tell drivers when they must stop and when it is safe to proceed
The above should all work to ensure that drivers make it safely through construction without crashing.
Liability for Road Work Zone Crashes
Construction crews can make many mistakes that cause crashes due to improperly directed traffic. These include:
- Not noticing when signs fall down or are not visible to drivers
- Not communicating with each other to know when it is safe for drivers to proceed or when they should stop
- Not properly setting up barrels or cones to block lanes that are unsafe for use
When road crews make errors directing traffic, and it results in a crash, the company leading the construction project and employing that crew should be liable. This might include private construction companies contracted for the project, or even the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT).
Filing claims against large construction companies can be challenging, as these companies will try to avoid liability whenever they can. In addition, the Kansas Tort Claims Act sets out special rules for bringing claims against government agencies, such as KDOT. We have handled cases against large construction companies and KDOT.
To win, you must be able to prove that crew members were negligent, which can include violating safety rules and regulations. It is critical to have a highly experienced personal injury handling your case from beginning to the end.
Contact a Salina Construction Accident Lawyer Today
At Neustrom & Associates, we take on difficult cases for injured clients, including claims arising from road construction accidents. You only have a limited time to file your claim, so it is important to seek help from a Salina car accident attorney right away. Call 785-825-1505 or reach out online for your free case evaluation.