Because the population of middle Tennessee is growing quickly, new roads, bridges and overpasses are popping up seemingly everywhere. Road crews are also hard at work keeping existing infrastructure in a safe condition. Consequently, you are likely to notice several construction zones throughout the area during the summer and fall.
Construction zones can be dangerous places for drivers, passengers, cyclists and pedestrians. In fact, according to the Federal Highway Administration, there were 842 fatalities in work zones in 2019 alone.
The risk of rear-end accidents
Work zones can be unpredictable places. Often, these areas have reworked traffic patterns, uneven roadways and other hazards drivers must manage. In 2019, about 25% of all fatal car accidents in construction zones occurred during rear-end collisions. Accordingly, it is a good idea to increase your following distance to give you more time to respond to slow-moving or stopped traffic.
The danger of speeding
In any construction zone, you may encounter workers who are no match for passing vehicles. To keep members of the crew and drivers safe, work zones often have reduced speed limits. Failing to comply with these limits can be deadly. In fact, the FHA’s 2019 statistics reveal speed was a factor in approximately 30% of all fatal accidents in work zones that year.
The possibility of financial compensation
If you sustain a catastrophic injury in a motor vehicle accident in a work zone, you may have mounting medical bills you simply cannot pay. Fortunately, if someone’s actions caused or contributed to the accident, you may be eligible for substantial financial compensation.
While financial compensation does not take away your pain and suffering, it may help you pay for top-notch medical treatment. Ultimately, exploring all your legal options may boost your odds of recovering completely and moving on with your life.