Why Construction Zone Accidents Are Not Uncommon
Sadly, as long as there are careless drivers or negligent construction companies, work zone accidents will remain common. Construction workers are completely vulnerable, working unprotected alongside fast cars zooming down the highway. One wrong move, an accidental fall, or a distracted driver can mean a life-threatening injury for a construction worker.
What Defines a Road Construction Zone in New York?
Under NYS VTL 1180(f), a “work zone” is an area on a roadway that is used or being occupied for road construction in which workers, equipment, vehicles, materials, supplies, excavations, or other obstructions may be present. A work zone may also be known as a “work area” or “construction zone.” In order to promote work zone safety, these areas are often occupied by road work signs and bright orange traffic cones. It is important to note that even if there are no workers present, the area is still considered a work zone. Therefore, rules still apply at all times of the day and you may still be ticketed for speeding in a work zone even when there is no work being performed and there are no workers in sight.
How You Can Prevent Being in a Road Construction Zone Car Accident
Drivers must remain vigilant around work zones to help keep construction workers safe. You can never be too careful while approaching a construction project. In a previous blog, we gave you five easy work zone safety tips that you can do as a driver to prevent an accident in a road construction zone. These are five simple tasks you can implement today to ensure hardworking New Yorkers are protected.
CONTACT US FOR A FREE CASE EVALUATION
Who Can Be Held Responsible for Your Injuries
Responsibility for work zone crash injuries can get complicated. If you are a construction worker injured by a careless driver who is texting or not following road construction signs, they may be held liable for your injuries. A construction worker injured while performing their job is eligible for workers’ compensation to help pay medical bills and lost wages; however, they are also entitled to seek pain and suffering and other economic losses from the negligent driver’s insurance company. It is a good idea to consult a personal injury attorney to walk you through the process.
As a non-worker, you are at risk of a construction zone accident as well. If there were not proper warnings such as a ‘Road Work Ahead’ sign, if a worker was not properly directing traffic, or if tools were left in traffic lanes, the construction company can be held liable for your injuries and losses.
Determining liability in a road construction accident is complex, which is why consulting a professional is essential to receive the compensation you deserve. Hiring a personal injury lawyer is advantageous and they can help navigate you through a work zone lawsuit and prevent the large insurance companies from taking advantage of you.
If you’ve been a victim of a work zone auto accident, you need an experienced personal injury attorney fighting for you. Road construction lawsuits can get messy, but Brindisi, Murad and Brindisi Pearlman have been fighting for victims in the Central New York community for over 60 years. We have the knowledge and passion to stand up to the insurance companies and get you the compensation you rightfully deserve. Contact our office for an initial consultation completely free of charge.
Share this blog with your friends…
Related Blogs
Spring Car Accidents: Driving In Spring Weather Hazards In New York
Most people are concerned with how the winter weather will coat the roads in snow and ice. But some do not realize how much damage the winter leaves behind and the potential dangers spring brings with it. From a deep pothole to lightning storms and flooding,...
How New York Winters Impact Power Lines & Cause Electrocution
Twenty years ago, in January of 1998, Upstate New York was hit with a massive ice storm that halted the area. The damage to the landscape and homes was astounding as many citizens were without power due to the weight of the ice and snow on power lines. When it...
Tips On Spotting Someone Driving Drunk In New York And What To Do
With the biggest game of the year, Super Bowl Sunday, last weekend, many football fans attended themed parties or went out to their favorite bars to watch the game with friends and family. Usually accompanying these get-togethers is alcohol. The trouble comes...
Injured In An Accident?
Contact BMBP Today!
BRINDISI, MURAD & BRINDISI PEARLMAN
UTICA OFFICE
Utica, NY 13501
OFFICE HOURS
MONDAY – FRIDAY
9AM-5PM