Construction zones, also known as work zones, caused 821 fatal traffic crashes nationwide in 2022. These closed-off areas allow workers to perform essential road maintenance and construction projects, but they also pose a risk to workers and drivers when safety takes a backseat. Understanding the risk factors and most common types of construction zone accidents can prevent these incidents and keep everyone safe.
Head-On Collisions
Construction zones sometimes close off one side of the road. When this happens, flaggers are responsible for alternating traffic patterns to allow drivers traveling in both directions to use the same lane. Head-on collisions can occur when something goes wrong during this process and two vehicles traveling in opposite directions use the same lane simultaneously.
Driver distraction is a common reason for this type of motor vehicle accident. Drivers can reduce the risk of a head-on collision in a construction zone by paying attention to the flagger’s signals. Avoiding distractions such as phone calls or texting while driving is particularly important in construction zones.
Some head-on collisions in construction zones occur due to the flagger’s error, such as giving conflicting signals or forgetting to stop traffic in one direction. Poor visibility can also contribute to these accidents if the flagger is positioned in a blind spot or isn’t wearing reflective clothing. Construction companies must train their flaggers to give clear signals and provide safety gear that allows drivers to see them.
Rear-End Collisions
Construction zones often bring traffic to a sudden halt. Drivers can rear-end other vehicles when they don’t notice the slowdown in time. The risk of a rear-end collision in a construction zone is higher when drivers follow too closely, drive above the speed limit, or use their phones while driving.
Occasionally, construction companies contribute to rear-end collisions when they close lanes without proper warning. Drivers should have the opportunity to gradually slow down or merge before reaching the construction zone. Construction crews should put appropriate signage and traffic control devices in place to alert drivers of upcoming lane closures.
Sideswipe Accidents
Merging can be tricky in construction zones, especially when lanes close without warning. Drivers may swerve into other vehicles when they encounter unexpected road closures at high speeds. This can cause sideswipe accidents where the side of one vehicle collides with the side of another.
Simply warning drivers of an oncoming lane closure before they need to merge can significantly reduce the prevalence of sideswipe accidents. However, driver error also plays a role in many of these construction zone accidents, even with ample warning. Distractions can prevent drivers from noticing signs, for example.
On the other hand, some drivers feel a sense of urgency and merge as soon as they notice construction zone signs even if they have plenty of time to change lanes. Sideswipe accidents are more likely when everyone on the road does this at the same time instead of gradually merging into the open lane. The zipper merge method, where drivers take turns merging into the open lane right before the lane closes, can prevent this from happening — but everyone needs to cooperate for it to be effective.
Pedestrian Accidents
In 2022, 136 pedestrians died in U.S. traffic crashes involving work zones. [The National Work Zone Safety Information Clearinghouse https://workzonesafety.org/work-zone-data/work-zone-fatal-crashes-and-fatalities/] Thirty-one of those fatalities were construction workers.
Safety oversights can be particularly dangerous when they cause a car to collide with a pedestrian. These accidents can occur when drivers speed through construction zones where pedestrians are present, are too distracted to see workers around the construction zone, or are intoxicated.
Construction companies have a responsibility to mitigate pedestrian accidents in work zones with proper safety measures. This can include using barricades and cones to separate pedestrians from traffic and placing warning signs so drivers can slow down or change lanes. Crews should also make sure the roadway is well lit at night and that workers wear high-visibility clothing, such as reflective gear and bright-colored vests.
Equipment Accidents
Work zones often place large machinery close to motor vehicle traffic. Construction equipment and cars don’t mix, and construction companies must be vigilant in preventing collisions between them.
Equipment accidents can occur when heavy machinery crosses over into a traffic lane. Flaggers should be present to guide the machinery and direct traffic to avoid crashes. Drivers should also be alert to the potential for equipment entering the roadway and drive slowly through construction zones. If drivers notice a flagger signaling them to stop or slow down, they should comply immediately and allow the equipment to safely pass by.
Mechanical failures may also contribute to equipment-related construction zone accidents. Construction companies should regularly inspect and maintain equipment to prevent malfunctions that could lead to accidents. Training workers on equipment safety protocol can also prevent them from losing control and causing an accident.
Road Debris Accidents
Construction zones can also be hazardous due to road debris. Loose gravel, rocks, and other materials can create hazards for both drivers and construction workers. This debris can fall from equipment and hit passing vehicles or create obstacles that drivers have to swerve around to avoid a collision.
While drivers are responsible for looking out for construction debris, there’s only so much they can do to avoid it. Construction crews must take extra precautions when working around vehicles to minimize the risk of road debris accidents. Securing loose materials, creating a buffer space between equipment and traffic lanes, and quickly cleaning up any debris that falls onto the road are all vital safety measures.
Learn About Your Rights and Options
Construction zone accidents often involve a combination of fault from both drivers and construction crews. Everyone on the road plays a role in maintaining safety in construction zones, but accidents are still possible. If you or someone you love has been injured in a construction zone accident, you may have a right to seek compensation from the responsible party. A personal injury attorney can inform you of your rights and options, beginning with a free consultation.
