What to do if You’re Injured in an Auto Accident in a Construction Zone?
According to the Virginia Department of Transportation, there were 4,854 construction zone accidents in Virginia in 2021. This number represents a 41% increase from 2020. Out of the nearly 5,000 construction zone accidents, there were also 1,861 injuries in work zone crashes and 28 fatalities. Those numbers also represented an increase from 2020.
Construction zones on roadways are inherently dangerous places. If you’ve been injured while driving in a construction zone, there are several things you should know to file a claim. If you’re looking for information about the claims process after this type of accident, keep reading. We’ll outline the steps you need to take to get started.
Construction Zone Accidents: Reduced Speed Zones
Drivers need to be extra cautious when driving in construction zones. Oftentimes, these areas will have reduced speed limits. Drivers who fail to slow down or obey the posted speed limit are more likely to cause an accident.
In addition to reduced speed limits, construction zones often have other hazards that drivers need to be aware of. These can include:
- Narrow lanes
- Differing or poorly marked traffic patterns
- Debris in the road
- Road workers present
- Construction vehicles blocking or partially blocking travel lanes
Because of these hazards, it’s important for drivers to use extra caution when driving in a construction zone. Unfortunately, even the most cautious drivers can be involved in an accident.
Construction Zone Accidents: More Likely Due to Inattentive Driving
One of the most common causes of accidents in construction zones is inattentive driving. Because construction zones often have reduced speed limits and other hazards such as cones, construction workers, work vehicles, etc., drivers need to be extra vigilant when driving through these areas. Unfortunately, many drivers fail to use the extra caution needed to ensure safe passage through the construction zone.
Distracted driving is a major problem on roadways today. Drivers who are distracted are more likely to cause an accident. This is especially true when traveling through a construction zone. When driving in a construction zone, it’s important to put away any distractions and focus on the road.
Construction Zone Accidents: Steps to Take After an Accident
If you’ve been involved in an accident in a construction zone, there are several steps you should take. These include:
- Move to a safe location: If you can, move your vehicle to the shoulder of the road. If you can’t move your vehicle, turn on your hazard lights.
- Call the police: It’s important to call the police after an accident, even if it seems minor. The police will create a report which can be used as evidence in your case.
- Exchange information: exchanged insurance information with the other driver involved in the accident.
- Photos: take photos of the construction scene, if your injuries will permit.
- Get medical help: If you’ve been injured, it’s important to get medical help right away. Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s always best to get checked out by a doctor.
Construction Zone Accidents: Filing a Claim
If you’ve been involved in an accident in a construction zone, you may be wondering how to file a claim. The first step is to contact the at-fault driver’s insurance company and let them know that you’ve been in an accident. The insurance company will then attempt to contact their insured and will start the claims process.
You will likely need to provide the following information to the at-fault driver’s insurance company:
- The other driver’s insurance information
- A police report
- Documentation of any injuries (in addition to preexisting injuries) or damage
After you’ve filed a claim with insurance company, they will open an investigation into the accident. Once the investigation is complete, the insurance company will determine who is at fault and will either approve or deny your claim. If your claim is approved, the insurance company will provide coverage for your damages. If your claim is denied, you may try filing a claim with your insurance company if you have collision and/or medical expenses payments coverage.
Construction Zone Accidents: Hiring a Lawyer
Depending on the circumstances of your accident, you may want to hire a lawyer. If you’ve been seriously injured in an accident, if the other driver was at fault, or if your insurance claim has been denied, you may want to consult with a lawyer about your legal options.
A lawyer can help you understand your rights and can help you file a lawsuit if necessary. If you decide to file a lawsuit, your lawyer will represent you throughout the legal process.
Talk With Virginia Personal Injury Lawyers
If you have been involved in a car accident in a construction zone, it is important to speak with an experienced car accident lawyer who can help you understand your legal rights and options. Most personal injury attorneys offer a free consultation and will provide some advice that may help you decide whether you can handle a claim on your own. Call us today for a free case evaluation. We will review the facts of your case and advise you of your best course of action.
Why Do I need a Car Accident Lawyer?
You may be wondering if you really need an attorney after a car accident. The answer is, it really depends on your individual situation. Some car accident cases are settled without going to court. However, if the other driver denies responsibility or if the insurance company denies your claim, you may need a law firm to take legal action to get the compensation you deserve.
When another driver is responsible for causing your injuries in a car crash, the Ritchie Law Firm is here to help. The experienced, certified car accident attorneys at the Ritchie Law Firm will help you prove the other driver caused your injuries. DON’T GET HURT TWICE!! The Ritchie Law Firm will make them pay for their recklessness. We have helped thousands of injured people get the money they deserve
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Ritchie Law Firm is a personal injury law firm devoted to helping individuals who have suffered serious and catastrophic injuries or lost a loved one as a result of someone else’s negligence. Ritchie Law Firm serves all of Virginia, while helping clients in cities and surrounding areas of Harrisonburg, Charlottesville, Staunton, and Winchester also serves clients in West Virginia, including Martinsburg, WV.
