The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) reports that in 2017, there were 27,148 road construction accidents across the state of Texas. It has been reported that more than three people every single day are seriously injured. Many more suffer from less debilitating injuries. Every week, four people are killed in work zone crashes. At Springer & Lyle, we are known for our zealous representation of those who have been seriously injured, or whose loved ones have been killed as the result of a work zone crash.
Who is Liable for a Car Accident that Occurs in a Road Construction Zone?
Independent road construction companies have a duty to make the area safe. When an accident occurs due to the company’s negligence, they may be liable for the damages they cause. The company could also be liable for the negligent actions of its employees. Some examples of negligent actions of the construction company and/or its employees that may cause a road construction accident:
- The design of the project may be one that is dangerous if it forces motorists to make dangerous or sudden maneuvers while driving through or around the construction zone.
- Failure of the company to comply with the construction plan approved by state agencies.
- There may be a lack of warning signs that inform drivers of danger ahead.
- The directions for maneuvering through the site may be hidden and not clearly visible to drivers.
- The operation of the construction equipment may be in a dangerous location creating an unreasonable hazard to drivers.
Some road construction accidents may be caused by another driver. Examples include:
- One driver appropriately slows down for the road construction and is hit from behind by a driver who failed to notice the decreased speed.
- A driver is distracted and fails to see the warning signs.
- A driver is going too fast through the construction zone and hits a warning sign, or perhaps some of the machinery or other equipment, causing a chain reaction of a line of other drivers running into each other.
The final answer as to who is responsible is, “it all depends.” It depends on which entity or person was negligent. At our law firm, we gather all the evidence in order to determine who was or may be liable for your road construction crash.
The personal injury attorneys at Springer & Lyle can help you obtain reasonable compensation you may be entitled to for your injuries, lost wages, medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other physical damage. Contact us at 940.387.0404 for a free consultation.
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