According to the Ohio Department of Transportation, Ohio hit an all-time high number of work zone accidentshttps://www.transportation.ohio.gov/about-us/news/statewide/odot-reminding-motorists-to-move-over-slow-down-for-road-crews: 6,574 in a single year in 2019. From these crashes, there were 1,121 injuries and 16 deaths.
Not all injuries and deaths affect the workers themselves – just two of those deaths were road workers. It is common for these types of accidents to occur in more congested, high-traffic areas.
Even though signs are posted to warn drivers of upcoming construction zones, many drivers don’t slow down or stay alert. According to the Legislative Service Commission, “rules govern the posting of signs advising motorists that increased penalties apply for certain traffic violations occurring on streets or highways in a construction zone.”
Plus, fines are doubled in work zones during work hours, even if workers are not present in the state of Ohio.
Differing Degrees of Liability
If you or someone you know has been involved in a car accident while driving in a construction zone, you should call Warren Law Firm for a free consultation.
Depending on the evidence, you may have rights as a driver.
Suppose you were speeding or looking at your phone while driving through a construction zone and accidentally hit a road worker, another car, or road equipment. In that case, chances are you’ll be held liable.
Hypothetically, let’s say you’re driving at night and go through an area on the highway where overnight construction is being done. Perhaps the construction worker is exhausted and accidentally rams his equipment onto incoming traffic, and your vehicle gets struck. In this scenario, you won’t be held liable – although it may be difficult to prove in court.
Contact Our Accident Lawyer in Ohio
Whether at fault or not, if you are involved in a car, motorcycle, or truck accident while driving in a construction zone means double the fines and stricter penalties. This is why you will need an experienced lawyer to handle your case.
If this construction zone accident occurred in Circleville, Lancaster, or Logan, Ohio, then contact Warren Law Firm. We offer a free consultation and have dealt with personal injury cases in the area for over 30 years.
It is important to note that you should seek medical attention immediately after a car, truck, motorcycle, or pedestrian accident. Once you are safe enough to make some calls, you should seek help from an attorney.
Suppose you decide to call your insurance agency before you speak to a lawyer. In that case, you need to note that anything you say may be held against you later. Whether you were at fault or not, you should weigh your options and see how attorney Mike Warren can help.
Thank you to Jamie Street for the featured image!
