Construction Zone Accidents in Arizona

Construction on Arizona streets, roads, highways, and freeways is seemingly never-ending. The growing state needs continuous road expansion and maintenance to keep motorists safe in their daily travels. However, road construction zones can also be extraordinarily dangerous for drivers. That is because poor signage, worker errors, reckless drivers, and other negligent actions can lead to severe accidents.

At Mushkatel, Gobbato, & Kile, P.L.L.C., we have seen how hazardous road construction zones can be and the severe injuries that result from work zone crashes. Our dedicated team has 50 years of combined experience standing up for people who have been injured. We are ready to help you seek the financial compensation you need to recover and move forward.

Serving the people of Phoenix and surrounding areas, such as Sun City, Surprise, Scottsdale, Peoria, and Glendale, we are here when you need a helping hand. Our attorneys will listen to your concerns and give you the straightforward legal advice you need after an accident. We even offer a consultation.

Get in touch with us today to talk to a knowledgeable and compassionate attorney. Call us or reach out anytime online.

What are Some Common Causes of Road Construction Collisions?

Road construction zones are commonplace on Arizona roads, and these areas are much more dangerous than many drivers realize. In fact, in just one year, hundreds of people died, and motorists sustained tens of thousands of injuries in U.S. work zones. The combination of torn-up roads, confusing signage, unclear directions, distracted drivers, speeding, and many other factors can add up to unexpected and destructive accidents.

Leading causes of road construction collisions include:

• Unexpected traffic patterns
• Poorly placed or incorrect signage
• Missing road markings
• Road damage
• Uneven surfaces
• Narrowed lanes
• Worker error
• Speeding
• Distracted and inattentive driving
• Reckless driving, such as merging or changing lanes without signaling or checking blind spots

Driving Safely in Road Construction Zones

While road construction zones can be hazardous, you can take steps to help keep safe. Here are some tips for driving safely in construction zones:

• Obey the speed limit. Too many people speed in work zones, making the situation more dangerous than it needs to be. By following the posted speed limit, you can help protect yourself from a crash.
• Follow instructions from workers and signs. While workers can make mistakes, it is usually best to obey instructions from any workers or signs on site. These can help you adjust to a new traffic pattern and avoid an accident.
• Wear your seatbelt. Modern cars have numerous robust safety features. One of the oldest is still one of the best – the seatbelt. Make sure your seatbelt is buckled whenever you drive, including in work zones.
• Stay off electronic devices and cell phones. Road work zones can be dangerous in the best of times. Add the distraction of a cell phone, and it can be a recipe for disaster.
• Do not follow others too closely. Tailgating can cause accidents even when the road is clear. Add unexpected lane changes, uneven surfaces, and other problems to the mix, and it is easy for a crash to happen.

What Are Some Types of Construction Accident Claims and Lawsuits?

After an accident, the type of construction accident injury claim or lawsuit you can pursue will depend on the circumstances of the accident and the facts of the case. Who was involved, who acted negligently, and who is ultimately responsible can all lead to different types of claims.

Following an accident, you may be able to bring claims or lawsuits such as:

• Negligence claims against a construction company for failing to set up a safe construction zone
• Defective products claims against a product manufacturer, such as if defective construction equipment collapses on the road
• Claims against other drivers for their reckless or careless actions
• Actions against municipalities when they are responsible for the work zones or rerouting traffic

If you were injured in a construction zone accident, an Arizona attorney can help you understand your options for bringing a claim.

What Should I Do If I Have Been in a Construction Zone Crash?

If you have been in a construction zone accident, some crucial steps can protect your health and your claim. The days, weeks, and months following an accident can be exhausting, but some important actions can protect your rights as you build your case.

Following an accident, you should:

• Talk with an Arizona construction zone attorney. They can answer your questions, advise you on your rights, and take the stress of pursuing a work zone claim off you. When you have been injured, you deserve legal help and support. An attorney can help.
• Stay off social media. Social media is a popular way to share information with friends and family. But it can cause problems because the other side can potentially use anything you post online to devalue your claim.
• Keep medical records and copies of any medical bills. When you need to pursue compensation for your injuries, it is essential to have documents showing the extent of your injuries and medical care, as well as the costs of your medical treatment. These records can be crucial to your case.
• Follow any instructions from your doctors and make sure that you follow through on the care you need. Some people give up on medical care before their treatment is over. But that can lead to unintended consequences for you and your claim.
• Hold on to any communications or information about your lost income. When you need compensation for lost pay, you will need to show how your injury affected your ability to work. Letters, emails, pay stubs, and other information can show how your injuries have hurt financially.

Get Help from an Arizona Work Zone Accident Lawyer

If you have been injured in a work zone accident, contact Mushkatel, Gobbato, & Kile, P.L.L.C. today. Our highly-rated attorneys are ready to serve you with the trusted advice and personal service you deserve. With decades of combined experience, we are here to protect your rights and help you move forward after an accident.

For a consultation, get in touch with us today. Simply give us a call or fill out our online form.

Visit Our Arizona Work Zone Accident Law Offices

About the Author

Zachary Mushkatel

Zachary Mushkatel discovered his affinity for the law by chance. As a political science major at the University of Arizona, he first aspired to become a professor. But an unexpected invitation to participate on a mock trial team at the university encouraged him to turn his competitive spirit and drive…