Crashes in construction and maintenance work zones resulted in 755 deaths and another 45,000 injuries in the United States in 2018, according to the Federal Highway Administration.
Drivers of motor vehicles accounted for 473 deaths. Additionally, 144 passengers of motor vehicles, 122 pedestrians, and 8 bicyclists were killed in work zone crashes.
Excessive speed is a major cause of work zone accidents. Delays due to road construction may aggravate drivers frustrated by everyday traffic congestion and may contribute to speeding. Most work-zone crashes take place on roads with speed limits greater than 50 mph, and most often are rear-end collisions.
Large trucks are involved in about 30% of work zone crashes. A major reason is the stopping distance for a large truck traveling at 55 mph is almost 50% greater than that needed for a car, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation.
Distracted driving is another common cause. Drivers must give their full attention to a work zone that may be subject to navigating temporary, narrow roadways, that may include changing speed limits as well as other driving instructions.
Drivers are urged to stay off the phone, pay attention to the road, be considerate of others on the road, and obey the posted speed limits. A crash may result in serious injuries, significant medical bills, past and future economic losses, a work zone collisions lawyer Phoenix, AZ trusts can investigate fault, applicable insurance and evaluate claims for injuries and damages.
For more information, contact us today at Paul Englander, PLC to speak with a wrongful death lawyer Phoenix, AZ residents recommend.
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