Construction zones in California can pose major challenges for drivers. Narrowed lanes, shifting traffic patterns, and heavy construction equipment often create sudden hazards that can lead to serious collisions. If you’re involved in an accident in a work zone, it’s important to know your legal options so that you’re prepared if you need to pursue a claim. Understanding your rights can help ensure you receive fair treatment and any compensation you deserve for injuries or property damage. Let a Fresno car accident attorney explain your legal options following a construction accident.
Causes of Construction Zone Car Accidents
Construction zones bring many unique hazards that can lead to serious collisions. Below are some of the common causes that can lead to accidents and personal injury claims:
Driver Error
Many accidents in construction zones happen because drivers aren’t paying close attention to changed traffic patterns or instructions. This often includes speeding, ignoring posted signs, or failing to yield to construction crews and equipment. Even minor inattention can lead to severe crashes when traffic is already moving differently than usual.
Inadequate Signs
Some work areas lack clear warnings or directions, leaving drivers uncertain about speed limits or where lanes narrow or shift. Missing or hard-to-read signage can surprise drivers and force them to react at the last second. These sudden maneuvers often lead to collisions with other cars, barriers, or workers.
Road Hazards
When roads are under repair, it’s common to see rough pavement, potholes, or materials scattered around. Equipment and debris left on the roadway can become obstacles that cause damage or make drivers swerve. Minimal lighting or poorly marked lanes can also lead to accidents, especially when it’s dark or getting dark outside.
Construction Worker Negligence
At times, work crew members may not use proper safety measures, such as setting up cones, barriers, or signal flags. Workers may also stand too close to lanes with active traffic. In these cases, what could have been a controlled environment turns into a high-risk scenario for passing vehicles and workers.
Weather Conditions
Rain, fog, or other bad weather can reduce visibility and make the road slippery. This makes it even harder for drivers to predict sudden hazards or see workers in the construction area. When weather and already-difficult road conditions mix, the chance of an accident goes up significantly.
If you’ve been involved in a construction zone accident, understanding what led to the crash can help you decide how to move forward with an insurance or legal claim.
Steps to Take After a Construction Zone Accident
If you’ve been in an accident in a construction zone, there are several steps you can take to protect both your rights and your well-being.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel okay, it’s important to see a doctor right away to check for injuries that might not show immediate symptoms. Many people walk away from accidents in shock and don’t notice pain until days later. Getting medical care promptly also helps create a record of your injuries, which is useful if you decide to file an injury claim.
Document the Scene
Take pictures or videos of anything you think could be evidence, like the placement of construction signs, lane closures, and damage to the vehicles. Make a note of any unusual conditions, like poor lighting or unclear road markings. If there are witnesses, get their contact details in case you need supporting statements later on.
Report the Accident
Call the police or highway patrol to document the crash through an official report, especially if there are significant damages or injuries. This report can also record details about the construction zone, such as missing cones or barriers. Notify your insurance company about the accident, but stick to the basic facts of what happened.
Avoid Admitting Fault
When speaking with police, insurance adjusters, or others, avoid taking responsibility or making any claims that could be interpreted as an admission of liability. You may not know all the details of the accident yet, and fault could lie elsewhere, like with the construction company or another driver. Focus on the information you have and let the investigation reveal the rest.
Consult a Lawyer
If you’re dealing with large medical bills or ongoing treatment, a lawyer can help you figure out who is liable for the accident. They can also negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf, potentially saving you time and stress. An experienced Fresno injury attorney knows how to gather and present evidence, and they’ll guide you on whether it’s wise to file a lawsuit or settle.
By following these steps, you give yourself the best chance of recovering physically and gaining some relief for financial losses after a construction zone car accident. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.