Most people look at road construction as an inconvenience, simply something that gets in their way of getting to work and school on time. As a consequence, they speed through construction zones completely disregarding warning signs, putting the safety of road construction workers in jeopardy.
According to statistics from the U.S. Department of Transportation, road construction workers have a very dangerous job. Every year, more than 20,000 people are victims of work-related injuries in construction zones. Twelve percent of those injuries can be traced back to car accidents or other transportation-related incidents. Furthermore, traffic incidents were responsible for 76 percent of construction zone occupational fatalities in 2011 as reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Additionally, the U.S. Department of Transportation reports that, in the United States in 2010, car accidents were a factor in 576 construction zone deaths of both construction workers and motor vehicle occupants. Of these fatalities, 20 percent were attributed to intoxicated driving, and speeding was a factor in 31 percent of the deaths. The most common type of work-zone accidents was rear-end collisions.
Road construction workers put their lives at risk every time they go to work repairing our traffic and weatherworn streets and highways. These workers deserve to feel safe on the job as the rest of us. The following are some ways drivers can help make road workers’ jobs less dangerous:
- Always obey the posted work zone speed limit. If conditions warrant it, consider going even slower
- Never operate a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, drugs or mind-altering prescription medications
- Stay aware of the other vehicles on the road, and leave enough room so that you can make quick stops if you need to
- Avoid distractions when you enter a work zone. Turn down the radio, avoid distracting conversations, refrain from making phone calls, eating, changing a CD or any other activity that takes your eyes and mind off the road
Seattle Personal Injury Lawsuit Attorneys
If you or someone you love has been injured in an accident anywhere in Seattle or throughout the State of Washington, the personal injury lawsuit attorneys at Phillips Law Firm can help. We can fight aggressively to ensure that you receive the maximum compensation after a devastating accident. If you are interested in learning more about your legal options, call us at 1-800-708-6000. Our personal injury lawsuit attorneys are waiting to assist you 24/7, offering a free case evaluation. Remember our no fee promise. If we do not recover anything for you, you do not owe us an attorney fee.