It’s Construction Season! Here Are Steps to Take After a Construction Zone Accident in Ohio
Posted in Accident & Injury, Automobile, Car Accident, Motorcycle Accident, Truck Accident on March 31, 2025
Construction zones are common on Ohio’s roadways as infrastructure projects expand. While these areas are vital for progress, they present significant dangers for both drivers and workers. Accidents in construction zones can lead to serious injuries, causing financial hardship, physical pain, and emotional distress. If you have been injured in a construction zone, it is vital to understand your legal rights.
Common Causes of Accidents in Construction Zones
Construction zones pose inherent hazards due to altered traffic patterns, narrowed lanes, and the presence of heavy machinery. Several factors, however, increase the likelihood of accidents.
- Inadequate signage: Construction zones pose inherent hazards due to altered traffic patterns, narrowed lanes, and the presence of heavy machinery.
- Driver negligence: Distracted or speeding drivers often do not navigate construction zones safely, which increases the risk for everyone involved.
- Poorly maintained equipment: Faulty machinery or improperly placed barriers can pose risks to workers and drivers.
- Negligent site management: Inadequate planning or oversight may lead to unsafe conditions, including debris on traffic lanes or insufficient lighting at night.
Ohio Work Zone Crash Statistics (2020 – Present)
- Total Work Zone Crashes: 22,416
- Total Deaths: 104
- Fatalities have increased by 144% in 2024 compared to 2023
- Crashes Occurring When a Worker Was Present: 35%
- Peak Time for Crashes: Monday – Friday, 7 AM – 7 PM
- 63% of crashes occur on weekdays
- Speeding Citations Issued in Work Zones: 30,607
- 39% of citations were for speeds 20+ mph over the limit
High-Risk Routes for Work Zone Crashes
Driver & Passenger Injuries Commonly Seen in Construction Zone Accidents
Top Injuries Drivers Face in Work Zones
Accidents in construction zones often lead to serious injuries due to high vehicle speeds and the presence of heavy machinery. Common injuries include:
- Broken bones and fractures
- Head injuries, including concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Spinal cord injuries, which may lead to paralysis
- Severe cuts, bruises, or burns
- Emotional trauma caused by the accident
These injuries may necessitate significant medical care, rehabilitation, and time off work, leading to enduring consequences for the victim.
Steps to Take After a Construction Zone Crash
The steps you take right after a construction zone accident are crucial.
- Seek medical attention: Even if you think your injuries are minor, seeking medical care is essential. Conditions like traumatic brain injuries may not show symptoms immediately.
- Document the scene: Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any dangerous road conditions.
- Collect information: Make sure to gather the contact information of anyone who saw the incident, any other drivers who were involved, and, if it’s relevant, the construction company in charge of the work being done.
- Report the accident: Contact law enforcement and your insurance company if needed.
- Consult an attorney: A personal injury lawyer can assess your case, identify liable parties, and pursue the compensation you deserve.
While accidents cannot always be prevented, many can be avoided through precautionary measures. Drivers should slow down, avoid distractions, and follow posted signs when approaching construction zones. Construction workers can reduce risks by adhering to safety protocols, wearing protective gear, and staying aware of their surroundings.
Call Elk + Elk
If you or a loved one have been a victim of a construction zone accident injury and are unsure of your rights, having an experienced attorney is critical. Contact Elk + Elk at 1-800-ELK-OHIO to learn about your options for appealing an insurance denial.