A construction worker on a highway paving project in suburban Philadelphia was killed in an accident involving construction equipment, according to a news report. The cause of the accident was under investigation by local authorities.
Motorists typically consider road work zones a necessary nuisance. But for the workers, they can be fraught with danger and risks. Work zone accidents occur far too often and can be deadly.
In 2012, there were 1,661 work zone accidents in the state of Pennsylvania. They resulted in the deaths of 21 people, including three workers who were in the work zones at the time of the collisions.
Preventing Work Zone Accidents
Ultimately we all benefit from road construction and repair, though the delays can be frustrating for motorists. Drivers in a hurry may fail to slow down as required when entering a construction zone, sometimes with catastrophic results.
For work zone safety:
- Check your route before leaving home and make adjustments if construction is planned.
- Always reduce your speed when entering a work zone.
- Stay off of your cellphone or other handheld device.
- Watch for workers or equipment entering the roadway.
- If lane closures are part of the zone, allow other drivers to merge without incident.
- Do not change lanes while traveling through a work zone.
- Leave extra room between you and the vehicle in front of you.
- Watch for sudden stops and keep an eye on your rearview mirror if you are forced to stop suddenly.
- Obey all flaggers and construction workers trying to direct traffic through the zone.
- Be patient. Remember that workers are putting their lives at risk to repair, maintain, or construct a roadway for you to use.
If you are a construction worker who has been injured in a work zone accident, you may be entitled to benefits through the Worker’s Compensation. Although the system is intended to protect injured workers and their families, it can be difficult to navigate. If you have questions or concerns about your legal rights to compensation, contact the workplace injury lawyers at Shor & Levin, the Bulldog Lawyers, at 866-462-8553 or use our online contact form.
