Although construction zones are necessary to the function and development of the roadways and transportation systems, they can also be the setting of disastrous and sometimes deadly occurrences. If construction companies fail to place signs indicating the work zone, for example, or if drivers are distracted and fail to slow down while passing through, accidents can occur and cause serious injuries, damages or death.
Were you or someone you love injured in a work zone accident? Consider seeking legal counsel from a professional Oklahoma highway construction accident lawyer today to learn more about your legal rights. If you have a valid claim, you may be entitled to seek compensation for vehicular damages, lost wages and pain and suffering.
Deaths in Work Zones in Oklahoma
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that, in 2012, 130 people passed away from occupational injuries sustained in construction or other work zones. The National Work Zone Safety Information Clearinghouse also reports that, out of 708 total motor vehicle fatalities in 2012, 688 deaths occurred outside of work zones while 20 people lost their lives in a work or construction zone.
What Causes Construction Zone Accidents?
According to experts, construction zone accidents are most commonly caused by negligence by either the drivers or construction companies, or both, although accidents can occur due to many factors. Still, if a driver is speeding, not paying attention or traveling under the influence of alcohol or drugs, he or she may be more likely to lose control of the vehicle or be unable to slow down while passing through work zones.
Similarly, construction companies may also cause accidents, particularly if they outsource projects to independent contractors who may or may not adhere to or meet safety guidelines. Additionally, a construction company may neglect or misplace cones, signs or other equipment indicating an active work zone to drivers.
What Should I Do After an Accident?
If you are involved in an accident, provide or seek medical attention if necessary as soon as you notice injuries. File a police report at the scene of the accident as this can be a valuable document as evidence should you decide to pursue a claim. Inform your insurance provider of the incident to begin the process of receiving coverage for vehicular damages or injuries. However, make sure to document all interactions with the provider so that you have evidence should the company make the attempt to falsify your claim.
It is also vital, particularly if your insurance coverage is lacking, to consult with an Oklahoma highway construction accident lawyer to determine if you are eligible to pursue a claim. He or she may also assist you in filing a wrongful death lawsuit on behalf of a loved one if he or she died in an accident due to another party’s negligence. Should you need to pursue a claim for yourself, an Oklahoma highway construction accident lawyer can help you to file for lost income, vehicular damage and medical expenses, among other damages, and work to make sure that the insurance company is correctly processing your claim.
Contact an Oklahoma Highway Construction Accident Lawyer for More Information
An Oklahoma highway construction accident lawyer can inform you of your legal rights if you or someone you love were injured in a collision. The affiliated attorneys at Attorney Group for Oklahoma can provide you with a free case evaluation to help you to determine if you have a valid claim. An Oklahoma highway construction accident lawyer will handle your case and help you to seek the compensation to which you may be entitled for your injuries.
