Road construction zones are common along major highways and even secondary or local roads. As soon as harsh winter weather is gone, road repairs and new construction begin. Regardless of how carefully signs and cones are set up, these areas are often hazardous for both drivers and road workers.

Goldberg Finnegan discusses construction zone crashes, including when Maryland drivers may be able to seek compensation.

If you were injured in a construction zone collision, we encourage you to speak with one of our car crash lawyers in Silver Spring. We are always prepared to help, and consultations are 100 percent free.

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Can Drivers Seek Compensation After a Maryland Construction Zone Crash?

Generally, yes, it is possible for a driver to seek compensation for injuries and other losses after a construction zone crash. However, you must be able to prove that another party was negligent. Being even one percent liable for a crash in Maryland disqualifies a driver from seeking any compensation after a crash.

That said, each traffic accident is unique, and there are others who may also be liable in a construction zone collision. Therefore, eligibility can only be accurately determined on a case-by-case basis. To find out whether you may be eligible to recover compensation for your damages, it is best to discuss the details of your crash with an attorney.

If you or your attorney can prove another party was liable for your crash, compensation may be available for related damages, such as:

  • Doctor appointments
  • Diagnostic testing, such as X-rays or MRIs
  • Physical therapy
  • Rehabilitation costs
  • Surgical interventions that may be needed
  • Property damage
  • Mobility assistive devices – such as a wheelchair
  • Any other related medical costs
  • Lost wages
  • Physical pain and suffering
  • Mental anguish

Who May Be Liable for a Construction Zone Crash In Maryland?

Liability for construction zone crashes is often down to driver error, such as speeding, driving while fatigued, or driving distracted or while impaired by drugs or alcohol.

However, drivers are not always at fault for a road construction zone crash. Work zone crashes may also be caused by a road worker or construction company because of:

  • Construction zone equipment placed too close to traffic
  • Inaccurate, poorly placed or missing signage
  • Unclear transition zones to help cars merge back into normal traffic
  • Uneven surfaces, bumps or debris left by road work or construction workers
  • Unexpected pavement drop-offs that may cause drivers to lose control of their vehicle
  • Lanes that are too narrow for traffic to pass safely through a work zone
  • Confusing signage that may cause a driver to end up in a lane of oncoming traffic
  • Flaggers or other construction workers who dart out into traffic without looking
  • Poorly planned traffic detours that cause motorists to have to take sudden or hazardous maneuvers
  • Signage not placed far enough in advance for adequate driver response time
  • Poorly lit work zone areas at night or when natural light is low

Another driver could also be at fault for your crash in a construction zone. For example, if another driver was not paying attention when traffic slowed down in a work zone and rear-ended your car.

Reducing the Risk of a Construction Zone Collision

You cannot be held responsible for the actions of others, and unfortunately, this means it is not always possible to avoid a crash. However, being a defensive driver, obeying traffic laws and watching for potential hazards can help to keep you safer behind the wheel. These are some additional safety measures you can take to protect yourself and others when driving through a construction zone:

  • Be patient, expect delays and slow down – Construction zone routes are unfamiliar and often confusing.
  • Obey the construction warning signs – Pay attention and remain alert for flaggers and road workers.
  • Avoid distractions – Texting or any distraction could cause you to miss important signage, or a road worker.
  • Be sure your taillights are working – This can help drivers behind you to know when to brake and avoid hitting you.
  • Keep a safe distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front – Going slower does not mean it is safe to drive closer.

Injured in a Construction Zone Crash? Our Law Firm is Ready to Help

If you were injured in a construction zone crash through no fault of your own, our knowledgeable attorneys are prepared to help.

At Goldberg Finnegan, we have been representing injured victims in Maryland for decades, and we know how to build a strong case on behalf of our clients. We are prepared to fully investigate the crash that caused your injuries and determine who may be liable for your damages. Contact our law offices anytime, night or day. There is nothing to pay up front or until your case concludes. We do not get paid unless you do.