Most people understand that construction zones in and around the roadway present various dangers for both drivers as well as to the construction workers themselves. Law enforcement officials take safety in construction zones very seriously, and drivers can face significant fines for speeding or operating recklessly in a construction zone. However, if an accident does occur in a construction zone, liability can become murky. It could be the case that a negligent driver is responsible for an accident, but what if a construction worker or construction company caused a crash?
When is the Construction Company Liable?
Construction companies have a duty to ensure that the construction site is safe, even when that construction site is around inherently dangerous areas such as roadways. Construction companies have a duty not to create dangers and to warn others when dangerous conditions may exist. When a construction company breaches its duty, it could very well be held liable for any damages or injuries that are caused by the negligence. Additionally, construction companies could be held “vicariously” liable for the careless or negligent actions of their workers or subcontractors at the construction site.
Some of the most common examples of a construction company and/or employee negligence at roadside work zones include the following:
- Improperly or poorly designed construction zone routes that create hazards by forcing motorists to make dangerous or sudden maneuvers.
- A lack of warning signs or improperly placed warning signs.
- Construction site detour directions that are not fully visible.
- Inaccurate or absent warning signs.
- The placement of signs, devices, or barricades in close proximity to lanes of moving traffic.
- The operation of construction equipment that impairs the passage of motor vehicles.
- Any negligent or careless actions taken by a construction employee or subcontractor that lead to an accident.
At Ciccarelli Law Offices, our Philadelphia construction accident lawyers can help you hold the negligent party accountable. We offer free case evaluations, schedule your appointment today.
When is a Driver is Liable?
Even when construction companies and employees take all of the steps necessary to keep the construction site safe near the roadway, there are times when the careless or negligent actions of drivers cause an accident and subsequent injuries. Some of the most common driver-related causes of car accidents in construction zones include:
- Drivers striking a warning sign or equipment that causes a chain reaction car crash.
- Rear-end accidents occur when a driver strikes another driver who properly stopped or slowed down in a construction zone.
- Distracted drivers who do not see the warning signs that indicate a construction zone and cause a car crash.
- Impaired drivers who cannot properly maneuver their vehicles in the construction zone.
- Drivers who operate well above posted speed limits for the particular construction zone.
If your injuries were caused by a negligent driver in a construction zone, visit our car accident attorney page to learn how our team can help you recover the maximum settlement.
Is an attorney necessary for a construction zone accident case?
If you or somebody you care about has been involved in a construction zone accident, you should speak to an injury attorney as soon as possible. Determining liability in these cases can be difficult, but an attorney will have the resources necessary to conduct a full investigation into the incident. A skilled car accident lawyer can obtain all records related to the construction zone to ensure that the construction company, employees, and subcontractors followed appropriate procedures to prevent accidents from occurring.