Warmer Weather: What Drivers Need to Know About Road Construction in Spring?

Spring weather in Pennsylvania is generally ideal for road construction. Warmer temperatures allow for easier and more efficient work and for materials such as asphalt and concrete to set properly. According to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), nearly 1,500 car accidents occur annually in work zones, resulting in over 100 injuries and numerous fatalities.

As the weather warms, knowing the unique dangers posed by road construction zones and how to travel through them safely is essential.

How Does Spring Road Construction Increase Car Accident Risks?

Spring marks the beginning of a flurry of road construction activity across Pennsylvania and poses unique challenges and risks for drivers. Roadways are often repaved, expanded, or repaired after the winter season, which can result in changing traffic patterns, detours, new lane configurations, uneven road surfaces, and the presence of large construction vehicles.

Changes can be confusing for drivers, especially when combined with distractions or spring driving conditions, such as rain and increased traffic congestion. As construction zones multiply, the likelihood of accidents increases, especially when drivers are unprepared for sudden lane shifts or reduced speeds in and near the work zone.

What Are Pennsylvania’s Work Zone Traffic Laws?

Pennsylvania has strict work zone traffic laws designed to protect both drivers and road crews. Speeding is a frequent problem in construction zones, and motorists must follow all posted reduced speed limits for safety. Pennsylvania’s Automated Work Zone Speed Enforcement program uses cameras to issue fines for speeding violations.

Additionally, drivers who cause work zone accidents resulting in serious injury or death face enhanced penalties, including hefty fines, license suspension, and imprisonment. Stay alert, reduce your speed, and follow all traffic signs to avoid violations and maintain safety.

Pennsylvania Turnpike’s Go Orange Program

Additionally, Pennsylvania has implemented initiatives to enhance safety in construction zones, including the Pennsylvania Turnpike’s “Go Orange” program.

The campaign runs annually from May to October, with a mission to raise awareness about work zone safety. This initiative urges drivers to slow down, remain alert, and be mindful of highway workers’ vulnerability. While the campaign has a focused period, its message is promoted year-round to ensure continuous commitment to safety.

Learn more about “Go Orange” here: https://www.paturnpike.com/go-orange-pa/sign-the-pledge#theForm.

What Are Common Causes of Construction Zone Car Accidents in the Spring?

Construction zones can be hazardous for drivers, with unexpected changes in traffic patterns and obstacles requiring extra caution.

Car accidents can easily occur in construction zones for many reasons, including but not limited to:

• Distracted Driving: Distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents, and construction zones are particularly hazardous when drivers are texting, eating, or doing other actions that take their focus off the road.
• Impaired Driving: Drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs impair judgment and slow reaction times, which is especially dangerous in areas requiring quick lane changes and altered traffic patterns.
• Impatience: Drivers frustrated with delays or detours may drive recklessly, such as weaving through traffic or tailgating.
• Inadequate Signage: Poorly marked construction zones or unclear directions can confuse drivers and lead to crashes.
• Speeding: Driving over the posted speed limit in a construction zone not only endangers everyone but can also result in steep fines.
• Sudden Lane Changes: Merging lanes in construction zones poses significant risks by requiring drivers to change lanes quickly or navigate narrower roadways. The lack of space and sudden lane shifts make it easier for accidents to occur.
• Construction Vehicles: Frequent movement of construction vehicles in and out of traffic lanes disrupts traffic flow and can cause accidents.

Rear-end collisions are particularly common in construction zones due to factors such as sudden stops, slow-moving traffic, and reduced visibility. During congested periods, there is often little time to safely stop if another vehicle suddenly slows down or stops in front of another driver.  Drivers have to make sure that there is enough distance between them and the vehicle in front of them to make sure they can stop safely.  Work zones with lane shifts and closures have increased risks for rear-end collisions.

Are Certain Times of Day More Dangerous in Road Construction Zones?

Accidents in construction zones are more likely to occur at specific times of the day, when typical hazards increase by varying traffic conditions and driver behavior, such as:

• Rush Hour: Increased traffic during morning and evening commutes can lead to congestion and a higher risk of accidents.
• Night: Reduced visibility at night can make it difficult for drivers to see construction signs, barriers, and workers.
• Early Morning: Drivers may be fatigued and less alert during early morning hours, impairing judgment and reaction times.

What Role Do Construction Crews Play in Preventing Work Zone Accidents?

Construction crews have a vital role in ensuring the safety of both workers and motorists in construction zones, such as:

• Proper Signage: Installing clear, visible signs indicating upcoming work zones, lane closures, reduced speeds, and changes in traffic patterns.
• Traffic Control: Using flaggers and other traffic control devices to manage the flow of vehicles and ensure that drivers follow the correct path through the work zone.
• Worker Safety: Barriers, cones, and other measures should be placed to protect workers and guide drivers safely through the construction zone.

Who Is Responsible for Construction Zone Car Accidents?

Determining liability in construction zone accidents can be complex and may involve multiple parties:

• Other Drivers: Drivers who violate traffic laws, such as speeding or failing to yield, can be held liable for the accident.
• Construction Companies: Companies responsible for the construction site may be liable if they fail to provide adequate signage or properly marked lane shifts.
• Government Entities: Local municipalities or the state government may be responsible for ensuring the overall safety of construction zones, including proper planning to minimize traffic disruption, maintaining roads, and ensuring well-lit construction.

Additionally, Pennsylvania follows the rule of comparative negligence for car accidents, which means you may still be entitled to compensation even if you are partially at fault. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

How Can I Prove Liability in a Work Zone Car Accident?

Determining liability in a construction zone accident can be complex, as it may involve multiple parties, such as other drivers, construction companies, and government entities. To prove liability, you need to compile evidence demonstrating fault, such as:

• Police reports detailing the accident, the officer’s findings, and any citations issued.
• Photos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, injuries, road conditions, and signage.
• Witness statements detailing crucial information about what happened before, during, and after the crash.
• Video footage from traffic, security, and dashboard cameras of the accident and actions of those involved.
• Testimony from experts in traffic safety or accident reconstruction demonstrating how the accident occurred and who was responsible.

What Should I Do After a Construction Zone Car Accident?

Navigating the aftermath of a construction zone car accident can be overwhelming, especially if multiple parties are involved or may be at fault. Quick action can help protect your rights and gather evidence supporting your claim.

After an accident, you should take the following steps:

• Report the Accident: Call the police and report the accident and any injuries.
• Exchange Information: Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver if another vehicle is involved in the accident.
• Document the Scene: Take photos of the scene, including the construction zone, signs, damages, and injuries.
• Limit Conversation: Avoid apologies or implicating statements that can be used against you later.
• Gather Statements: Ask any witnesses for contact information and statements.
• Seek Medical Attention: Be evaluated by a doctor as soon as possible to rule out life-threatening injuries with delayed symptoms.
• Consult a Lawyer: Contact an experienced Philadelphia car accident lawyer to help you understand your rights and navigate the complex legal processes.

How Can Galfand Berger LLP Help After a Construction Zone Accident?

Galfand Berger LLP has over 75 years of experience handling complex construction zone accidents and understands the challenges these cases involve. Our Philadelphia car accident lawyers are dedicated to investigating the circumstances of your accident, gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and holding the responsible parties accountable.

Some recent car accident settlements and verdicts include:

• $2 million recovery for the family of a driver who was killed after a rear-end collision with a construction truck that pulled out of an unmarked turnaround at night.
• $1.7 million settlement for turnpike employees injured by a speeding truck while assisting motorists on the side of the road.
• $1.5 million recovery for a pedestrian who was struck by a car while directing traffic in a work zone.

Philadelphia Car Accident Lawyers at Galfand Berger LLP Help Injured Clients Seek Justice for Construction Zone Crashes

The Philadelphia car accident lawyers at Galfand Berger LLP have been helping injured clients seek justice and compensation for over 75 years. If you or a loved one has been injured in a work zone collision, call 800-222-USWA (8792) or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. Located in Philadelphia, Bethlehem, Lancaster, and Reading, Pennsylvania, we serve clients in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, including Allentown and Harrisburg.