Road Work Zones Can Be Dangerous at Any Speed

Throughout Northeast Ohio, road work and construction projects are in full swing, including a number of projects underway in downtown Cleveland.  While necessary for the upkeep of our roadways and cities, these construction areas are often viewed as annoyances by busy commuters rushing to get to the office.  But no matter how important your next appointment may be, there is no excuse for careless driving when the safety of other motorists and workers is involved.

Road Construction Zone Accidents: Drivers and Workers are at Risk

According to the most recent data from the U.S. Department of Transportation, in 2010 nearly 27,000 U.S. work zone crashes ended in injury or death, with another 61,000 leading to property damage. These figures include both vehicle occupant and worker injuries and deaths.  Unsurprisingly, work zone fatal crashes were frequently attributable to common safety risks—lack of seatbelts, speeding, and alcohol use.

In light of the ongoing road work downtown, it is important to note that 41% of fatal work zone crashes occurred in areas with speed limits below 55 mph.  These fatal motor vehicle accidents do not occur exclusively on high-speed highways; even the relatively lower speeds of city driving are fast enough to destroy lives.

Who is Liable in a Road Work Zone Accident?

As with any motor vehicle accident, a work zone or construction zone accident can occur due to any number of factors.  Negligent workers, negligent motorists, auto defects, or prior negligent roadway maintenance may all contribute to injuries sustained by either workers or motorists.  When a road work zone accident occurs, an experienced Cleveland car accident lawyer should be consulted to determine where liability may lie.

Contact a Road Construction Accident Lawyer

If you or a loved one were injured in a motor vehicle accident that occurred in a road work zone, contact the Ohio car accident law firm of Lowe Scott Fisher Co., LPA today for a free consultation.