Work zones are incredibly important on our roadways and infrastructure. Unfortunately, even though they are incredibly useful, accidents can happen in the blink of an eye. As such, workers are at high risk, especially when traffic patterns change and during the evening or night hours. Between 2016 and 2017, it was reported that fatal crashes in work zones increased an astounding 3%.

The U.S. sees more work zone accidents than ever before. During the last five years, approximately 4,400 people died in a horrific work zone collision. Though drivers are more likely to lose their lives in these accidents, some impact the lives of construction workers and surveyors among many other employees. Rear-end accidents are actually the most common type of work zone accident but they can happen for any given reason.

Because the weather is starting to look up and workers are being seen more and more, there are some things to keep in mind. In understanding these tips, you can also work to prevent work zone accidents.

Tips for Preventing Work Zone Accidents 

Remembering Signs: Work zones usually display many signs. Drivers are urged to watch out for orange signs alongside the road that indicates if road work is going to approach. If the road narrows or there is a detour in place, signs will alert you to these matters.

Avoiding Driver Distractions: Distracted driving takes more lives than many other types of accidents on our roadways. When a driver is driving distracted, a serious accident is far more likely to end in tragedy when it happens in a work zone. Work zone accidents occur frequently when a driver is on their phone, which means that you should always put down the phone.

Turning on Headlights: Even during daylight hours, when you know that you are going to enter a work zone, you should keep your headlights on. 

Slowing Down: Speeding while in a work zone is one of the most dangerous things that a person can do. A victim could lose control of their vehicle in the blink of an eye when they are speeding through a work zone, which could put workers at risk. It is important that drivers reduce their speed when they enter a work zone. 

Follow at a Distance: When a person is driving through a work zone and not paying attention, they could easily rear-end another driver. Rear-end accidents are especially common in work zone accidents. It is important to keep space between your vehicle and the one in front of you so that you can prevent these collisions.

Working with an Attorney After a Work Zone Accident 

Work zone accidents happen in the blink of an eye when drivers are not paying close attention to what is happening around them. Being injured in an accident can have a huge impact on your life. Our skilled Florida personal injury attorneys at Sheftall & Associates are here to help you navigate the legal system for the first time as you work toward results. We are fully committed to handling your claim so that you do not have to stand alone. Please contact our attorneys in Florida at 904-647-2296 for more information on your options.