Highway construction companies often have the responsibility to ensure that equipment is out of the way and that road hazards are clearly marked around the site to reduce the risk of an accident. Similarly, drivers are obligated to exercise caution and adhere to safe driving practices when traveling around construction sites. Unfortunately, however, one or both parties neglect to follow these safety standards, acts that often result in highway construction accidents.
If you or someone you love were injured in a highway construction accident, consider seeking legal counsel to learn more about your rights. An experienced Arkansas highway construction accident lawyer can review your case, help to determine if you have a valid claim and assist you in seeking the compensation to which you may be entitled.
Statistics of Highway Construction Accidents
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that there were 106, 122 and 130 fatal occupational injuries at construction sites along highways in 2010, 2011 and 2012, respectively. Additionally, out of 552 total fatalities in motor vehicle crashes in Arkansas, 541 did not occur in a work zone, but 11 people did die as the result of these accidents while in a work zone, according to the National Work Zone Safety Information Clearinghouse.
What Causes Construction Accidents?
While construction zones may be dangerous regardless of whether they are alongside a highway or in the middle of a parking lot, construction sites on busy freeways can be more hazardous due to several factors:
- If dips, sharp curves or other road hazards are unmarked, drivers may travel at high speeds as they unknowingly approach construction zones.
- Those who are speeding, driving under the influence, not paying attention or violating other safety rules of the road can hit construction workers or damage equipment and cause serious consequences.
- The slightest misplacement of road markers or construction equipment can be dangerous as drivers on highways are traveling at extremely high speeds.
- If a construction company fails to place proper signage ahead of the construction zone, the drivers may not have ample time to adjust their speeds or slow down as they approach the site.
- Many construction companies hire their work out to independent contractors. In some instances, these smaller companies may not completely follow or meet current safety regulations.
- A construction company may not always anticipate the effect that severe or adverse weather conditions will have on the road and the drivers around them.
Steps to Follow After an Accident
It is crucial to immediately seek medical attention or provide care for those injured after an accident regardless of the extent of damage or fault. Law enforcement should be contacted so that a paper trail may be created and provide you with documentation should you decide in the future to pursue a claim. Additionally, inform your insurance company of the incident and ensure you obtain the same information from other parties involved.
However, you may also consider consulting with a professional Arkansas highway construction accident lawyer who can help to protect your legal rights. An Arkansas highway construction accident lawyer will be able to determine who was responsible for the incident by investigating the scene and consulting with witnesses. You may also want to hire an Arkansas highway construction accident lawyer for the following reasons:
- To help you file a wrongful death lawsuit if a loved one was killed in a highway construction accident
- To make sure that both insurance companies are properly and efficiently handling your claims
- To help you seek compensation for your injuries such as medical expenses, vehicular damage and lost income
Consult an Arkansas Highway Construction Accident Lawyer Today
Have you or someone you love been injured in a highway construction accident and you would like to learn more about your rights? Attorney Group for Arkansas can review your case and help you to determine if you have a valid claim. We will connect you with a professional Arkansas highway construction accident lawyer who will handle your case and help you to seek the compensation to which you may be entitled. You may be eligible to file for damages including vehicular damage, injuries, loss of income, or pain and suffering resulting from the accident.
