Glendale Highway Maintenance Accident Attorneys
If you were hurt in a construction zone accident in Glendale, you may be able to recover compensation for your serious injuries. Speak with a Glendale auto accident lawyer at (818) 550-1111 to set up a free consultation.
Representing Highway Maintenance Accident Victims in Glendale
Road construction projects are necessary to maintain and improve the highways for smoother traffic flow in the greater Los Angeles metro area. While these projects are in progress, however, it can make it difficult to get from one place to another. Road work zones create hazards for motorists, cyclists, pedestrians, and construction workers alike.
How Should Work Zones Be Marked?
Work zones are highway or roadway areas where construction is occurring. These zones should be marked by signs, cones, barrels, barriers, channeling devices, pavement markings, and/or work vehicles. A highway construction zone begins with the first warning sign or work vehicle with flashing lights and continues to the “End of Road Work” sign or the last traffic control device. When work zones are not properly marked, it can lead to accidents.
How Many Accidents Happen in Construction Zones?
One work zone fatality occurs for every 4 billion vehicle miles traveled in the U.S., as reported by the Federal Highway Administration (FHA). In 2020, 857 individuals lost their lives in work zone crashes. Of the 845 work zone fatalities in 2019:
- 690 were motor vehicle drivers and passengers
- 141 were pedestrians and bicyclists
- 14 were on personal conveyances or occupants of non-motor vehicle transport devices
How Do Accidents Happen in Highway Work Zones?
Of the 2020 fatal work zone crashes, 20% involved rear-end collisions, 33% involved commercial motor vehicles, and 32% involved speeding as a factor. Common causes of highway maintenance accidents include:
- Drivers who ignore reduced speed limits in work zones
- Insufficient or incorrect speed limit signs
- Construction debris and slippery substance spills blocking traffic lanes
- Work zones that are not well marked
- Insufficient warning of lane changes or closures
- Non-existent or incomplete highway division, lane markers, or edge lines
- Blocked roadways due to problems with construction equipment
- Construction vehicles in or around work zones colliding with motorists
- Uneven pavement, sharp turns, and inadequate lighting
Who Is Liable for Highway Maintenance Accidents?
Liability for construction zone accidents can depend on the circumstances. Injured drivers, pedestrians, and bicyclists may have a claim against:
- Construction companies that failed to follow safety regulations
- The city if it failed to properly oversee contractors in public construction projects
- Motor vehicles drivers who cause accidents through speeding, distracted driving, drunk driving, or other negligent actions
What Should You Do If You Were Injured in a Highway Maintenance Crash?
After a serious work zone crash, report the accident to the police and get medical treatment for your injuries right away. Exchange information with other drivers involved in the accident. If you are able, take pictures of the accident scene and get contact information for any eyewitnesses. As soon as you can, contact an experienced Glendale highway accident attorney about a claim for compensation. You may be able to claim damages such as medical expenses, lost income, loss of future earning potential, pain and suffering, and other losses.
How Can a Glendale Highway Maintenance Accident Lawyer Help?
Our experienced Glendale vehicle accident lawyer can investigate your accident to determine what caused the crash and who is liable. We can secure evidence to support your claim and build a strong case based on the facts. Our legal team can assess the full extent of your damages, negotiate skillfully with insurance companies on your behalf, and effectively pursue the compensation you deserve.
At Aratta Law Firm, we take the time to learn about you and your situation. We are a boutique firm with a no-nonsense approach based on three principles – communication, a tailored assessment of each case, and strategy and approach. Contact us at (818) 550-1111 to find out how we can help you.