Arizona Road Work Accident Factors

Accident and injury attorneys in Phoenix, Arizona, like Gage Mathers, see road work-related accidents all the time. In some cases, the crash may be the driver’s fault, such as if they were speeding. But other times, improper signage or hazardous conditions may be other factors contributing to construction zone accidents in Arizona.

In work zones, even a small oversight (whether by a driver or a construction crew) can have serious consequences. Drivers should be extra careful in Arizona construction zones with the highest accident rates, where these types of crashes tend to be more common.

Practicing Safe Driving in Work Zones

Sometimes, a construction zone car accident can be the fault of the driver. Work zones often ask drivers to pay attention, drive slowly,  and be aware of any sudden changes in traffic flow. Not adjusting to those conditions can be serious.

Some common driver-related work zone accident causes include:

• Speeding through work zones
• Ignoring posted signs or flaggers
• Following too closely
• Driving while distracted
• Making improper lane changes in narrowed or shifting lanes

In Arizona, drivers are expected to be extra cautious while driving through a construction zone. If a driver’s negligence or reckless behavior leads to an accident, they could be held liable for any injuries or damage caused.

What Makes Construction Zones So Dangerous?

Construction zones are unpredictable by nature. Drivers may encounter flashing lights, cones, temporary barriers, heavy equipment, and sudden lane closures, all within just a few hundred feet. This fast-changing environment can leave even experienced drivers struggling to keep up.

Here are a few reasons these zones are especially dangerous:

• Reduced space: With fewer lanes and tighter boundaries, there’s less room for error.
• Unexpected worker presence: Construction crews may be close to moving traffic, creating an urgent need for slower speeds and heightened focus.
• Limited visibility: Dust, bright floodlights, and night work can make it harder to see road markings or other vehicles.
• Inconsistent traffic flow: Sudden stops, merges, or slow-moving vehicles can lead to chain-reaction crashes.

In short, these areas demand more caution and awareness from everyone on the road, drivers and construction crews alike.

Elevated Risk and Negligence

There are times when the crash may not be the fault of the driver at all. Poor planning, lack of warning signs, poor lighting, or debris left in the roadway are just a few examples of rather dangerous conditions that even the most careful driver can’t expect. 

In these cases, it’s possible that responsibility may fall on the construction company, subcontractors, or even the local agency overseeing the project. In a work zone, they need to make sure a road is safe and without risk for drivers. When these folks in charge aren’t providing that safe environment, they could be found at fault for any resulting injuries or damage after an accident.

Navigating the legal aftermath of a road work accident warrants a close look at who may have created or failed to address the issue. This is where an experienced legal team can make all the difference.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Road Work Accident?

Construction zone accidents often involve more than just two vehicles. Depending on the situation, multiple parties may be partially or fully responsible for what happened. Here are some of the potential parties who could share liability:

• Other drivers: If someone was speeding, tailgating, or driving distracted, they may have caused or worsened the crash.
• Construction companies: If the zone lacked proper signage, had unsafe lane designs, or equipment was left in the road, the construction crew or site manager may be at fault.
• Government agencies: City or state departments responsible for maintaining safe roadways may bear responsibility if the road was poorly managed or failed inspection standards.
• Equipment manufacturers: If a malfunctioning traffic control device (like a flashing arrow or electronic sign) contributed to the crash, a product liability issue may come into play.

A strong legal team can help identify all possible sources of liability, which is key to building the strongest claim and recovering full compensation.

Getting Help from Gage Mathers

If you’ve been in a work zone car accident and feel like you’re not at fault, it’s time to chat with the experienced team at Gage Mathers. Our dedicated attorneys understand the complexities of construction zone accidents, from driver liability to contractor negligence. 

We’ll take the time to thoroughly review your case, collect evidence, and help figure out who may be at fault. Whether it’s a poorly marked detour, missing signage or unsafe road conditions, we’re here to guide you every step of the way as your biggest advocate.

Accidents in construction zones are incredibly stressful. This is why we’re here to help you navigate the complex legal side, so you can focus on the most important part: your recovery.

About the Author

Joseph D'Aguanno

Guided by the belief that being a highly skilled specialist in a narrow field is better than being ordinary in everything, Joseph “JD” D’Aguanno leads Arizona’s best personal injury law firm in Phoenix, AZ. Having extensive cross-training in pre-litigation negotiations and trial lawyer skills, with decades of experience, JD strives to provide clients with the most valuable legal services a personal injury lawyer can provide. Under his direction, Gage Mathers Law Group is an award-winning personal injury law firm providing aggressive representation to victims of a car accident, medical malpractice, dog bite, motorcycle accident, and other injurious events. Gage Mathers is trusted by thousands of lawyers and clients throughout the country because of their reputation for getting clients the maximum compensation they deserve.

Years of experience: Over 24 years
Bar number: 020421
Location: Phoenix, AZ
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