You will probably see more construction projects on the roads this summer. Construction helps make our roads safer and our daily commutes more enjoyable—even if we need to endure a few months of inconvenience in the summer months. However, construction zones are also dangerous. According to federal government statistics, around 600 people die every year in construction zone accidents. Tens of thousands of people also suffer serious injuries in construction zone collisions.
If you see a construction zone, remember the following to promote safety. We all owe each other a duty to look out for each other.
Slow Down
Speed kills, and this is absolutely true in construction zones. Traffic is congested in construction zones, so too much speed can lead to collisions with other vehicles. Also, you increase the chances of striking a construction worker, who might appear suddenly from behind a dump truck or barricade. The slower you go, the easier it is to swerve or hit the brakes and avoid a deadly crash.
Remember to slow down. The speed limit should be posted for your convenience. Also remember that if you are caught going too fast, you will probably pay a much larger fine.
Increase the Distance Between You and Other Vehicles
You never know when the vehicle in front of you will need to slam on the brakes to avoid hitting someone or something. For this reason, you must give yourself enough room between you and the car in front of you. Although 4 seconds might be enough out on the highway, double the amount when going through a construction zone.
Obey Construction Workers
If a worker is holding a stop sign, then stop. If the worker tells you to go into a different lane, follow the directions. Construction workers are there to help manage the flow of traffic. If you don’t follow their directions, you increase the chances of getting into a collision and creating traffic bottlenecks.
Limit Distractions
Distracted driving is never okay. But it is even more of a menace in a construction zone, where you might need to make a split-second decision to avoid disaster. Remember to:
- Put your phone away. Can’t that text wait?
- Don’t argue with people in the car, who can distract you.
- Limit eating or drinking until you get through the construction zone.
- Avoid looking down to change the radio, adjust climate controls, etc. They can wait until you exit the zone.
Watch for Big Vehicles
Large vehicles like dump trucks are constantly entering and exiting construction zones. These vehicles are not only heavy and can crush smaller passenger vehicles, but they also can strike construction workers. Always be careful around a large truck you encounter near a construction zone. These vehicles often have large blind spots, and any cargo that is not properly secured could come flying off the truck and strike your vehicle.
Contact an Austin Car Accident Lawyer with Questions
If you are injured in a construction zone, please call us. DJC Law can swing into action to protect your rights to compensation. We will handle all the legal details and communicate with insurance companies, freeing you up to focus on your recovery.
To schedule a free consultation, contact us at 512-888-9999.
