Construction Zones And Detours: How Spring Roadwork Increases Baltimore Car Accident Risks
Drivers on Interstate 95, the Beltway, and other busy roads are accustomed to seeing construction cones and flashing signs year-round, but they are particularly common in the spring. Road repairs, bridge work, and utility projects are necessary to keep infrastructure safe. However, they can also rapidly increase the risk of car accidents in Baltimore.
Work zone collisions can cause personal injuries that take months or even years to heal from, along with extensive property damage and other losses. Our experienced Maryland car accident lawyers explain why they happen and your rights to compensation.
Why Drivers Need To Use Caution When Traveling Through Baltimore Construction Zones
The Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) has numerous road projects underway throughout the Baltimore region, many of which target I-695 and other heavily traveled major roads.
As the worst of winter weather passes, road crews are ramping up for the spring, which means a greater potential for sudden detours and delayed travel times. It also makes Baltimore car accidents more likely to happen. Factors that increase the risks include:
- Reduced lanes and abrupt merging;
- Uneven payment and sudden drop-offs;
- Unclear or poorly placed signage;
- Construction equipment in active traffic lanes;
- Workers operating near moving vehicles.
While the above factors increase Baltimore car accident risks, other drivers may ultimately be to blame. According to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), rear-end crashes are the leading type of work zone accident and often occur due to aggressive and distracted driving.
Who is Liable in a Baltimore Work Zone Crash
Construction zones don’t make traveling throughout the busy Baltimore area any easier. When drivers go too fast for conditions, are distracted, fail to yield, or engage in other reckless behavior, it increases the risk for everyone on the road.
When a work zone accident happens, you have the right to hold those at fault liable. However, multiple parties may be at fault, and insurers are quick to deny claims or offer reduced settlements. To get the compensation you need to recover, take these steps:
- Report the crash immediately to law enforcement.
- Get contact information for all drivers, witnesses, and any workers or construction contractors nearby.
- If you can, take photos of the accident site and damage to vehicles.
- Get medical care and follow all doctor instructions regarding treatment and work/activity restrictions.
- Get legal help before speaking with insurance representatives.
Our experienced Baltimore car accident lawyers can review the crash, determine liability, and fight to get you the compensation you deserve.
Injured in a Baltimore Work Zone Crash? Contact an Experienced Maryland Car Accident Lawyer
As roadwork increases throughout the spring, work-zone car accidents in Baltimore pose significant risks. Were you or someone you love injured? Contact Maryland Injury Lawyers for trusted legal help in holding those at fault accountable.
Our Maryland car accident lawyers have decades of experience and a proven record of results. While you focus on your recovery, we fight for the maximum amount you are entitled to in a work zone claim. Reach out to our office today to request a consultation.
Sources:
mdot-sha-project-portal-maryland.hub.arcgis.com/
ops.fhwa.dot.gov/wz/resources/facts_stats.htm
