Factors Contributing to Construction Zone Accidents in Arizona

Driving in a construction zone adds a whole new layer of risk. Phoenix car accident lawyers have seen accidents due to a number of factors: debris, more signs to follow, slower speeds, and drivers who simply may not be paying attention. 

Just as there may be e-scooter accident hotspots in downtown Phoenix; there are construction hotspots, too. This is why it’s important to know what the Arizona roadwork accident factors are before you get behind the wheel and drive through a work zone. 

Navigating High-Risk Areas

Driving through a work zone requires an added level of care to avoid a crash. When you’re on the road, it’s important to drive slowly and pay close attention to the streets in case of any sudden detours or changes. You need to be prepared to act quickly when things shift! 

Accidents can happen in the blink of an eye, and for a number of reasons, such as:

• Speeding 
• Ignoring signage
• Poor lighting and limited visibility
• Following the car in front of you too closely
• Distracted driving
• Changing lanes incorrectly 

Ensuring this doesn’t happen to you means you’re avoiding any accidents and the risk of being held liable for injuries or damages.

The Hidden Dangers of Nighttime Work Zones

Some of the most dangerous construction zone accidents happen at night. While evening work allows crews to avoid peak-hour traffic, it also puts drivers at risk. Here’s why:

• Reduced visibility: Even with cones, floodlights, and signs, it’s harder to see changes in traffic flow after dark.
• Drowsy driving: Many drivers are naturally more tired at night. Add in flashing lights and confusing lane shifts, and it’s easy to make a split-second mistake.
• Missing signs: A sign that’s easy to spot during the day can become hard to see at night, especially if it’s been knocked over, blocked by debris, or not properly illuminated.

If you’ve ever driven down a poorly lit stretch of highway under construction, you know how fast conditions can shift. Accidents in these areas often happen because a driver didn’t have enough time to react.

Understanding Arizona Law and Work Zone Penalties

Curious about Arizona law in work zones? Here’s what you need to know, especially if you’re trying to avoid both accidents and fines.

Even if no workers are physically present, Arizona law still requires drivers to follow posted speed limits in designated work zones. These reduced speeds are there for a reason: work zones often have narrower lanes, unexpected detours, and changing traffic patterns that can quickly lead to a crash if you’re not ready.

If workers are on site and you’re caught speeding, the consequences are even more serious. You’ll face the regular speeding fine, plus an additional penalty equal to that fine, which means that it’ll cost you twice as much. If you don’t pay, the status of your driver’s license could be at risk.

How to Protect Yourself When Driving Through a Work Zone

While you can’t prevent every accident, you can reduce your risk. Here are a few smart ways to stay safe in a construction zone:

• Leave extra room between cars:Give yourself enough time to react if the car in front of you stops suddenly.
• Watch for flaggers and follow their instructions: They’re there to help keep traffic flowing safely.
• Slow down early: Don’t wait until the last second to reduce your speed. You might not have time to react.
• Stay alert: Put away distractions like your phone or snacks.
• Don’t make assumptions: Road conditions can change quickly, and what was clear one minute might be blocked the next.

It may take an extra couple of minutes to get where you’re going, but staying safe in a work zone is worth it. And if an accident does happen, especially due to poor conditions or unclear road markings, know that you have legal options.

What if the Accident Isn’t My Fault?

If you’ve been involved in a car accident in a construction zone and believe that you’re not at fault, you may have grounds for legal claim. Poor signage, unclear detours, leftover debris on the road, or bad lighting are all factors that can lead to construction zone car accidents.

At Gage Mathers, we take on cases like this every day. We know how confusing and stressful car accidents can be, especially when you’re not sure who’s responsible or what to do next. This is why we’re here to help you from start to finish. We’re on your side, and it’s our mission to get you the justice and compensation you deserve!

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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