Work Zone Accidents

Work zone accidents can be dangerous for both motorists and highway workers, but you may be surprised to learn that motorists and passengers are far more likely to be hurt or lose their lives in these areas than highway workers. The Federal Highway Administration estimates that on average, almost 600 work zone fatalities take place each year across the United States. Approximately 85 percent of those who are killed are motorists. If you or someone close to you has been injured in a work zone accident, it may be helpful to enlist skilled Marietta car accident attorney Norman Miller. He can carefully explore the details of your situation and advise you on your rights and options.

Many times, car wrecks in work zones occur because people are driving on the wrong side of construction barriers. In other cases, they may take place because drivers suddenly change lanes or strike fixed objects, due to confusing or unclear signs.

If you have been involved in a work zone accident, you may be able to take legal action against the at-fault party. Depending on the circumstances, there may be several parties that are partially or wholly responsible for your injuries. For example, many work zone accidents are caused by an individual driver’s negligence. Negligence is a failure to exercise reasonable care behind the wheel that results in harm to someone else. Reasonable care is defined as how a prudent driver would act in the same situation. For example, a prudent driver would be expected to reduce speed in work zones and obey posted signs regarding any closures, lane shifts, or detours.

In other situations, problems may arise with the maintenance of the work zone. When this happens, the parties that may be responsible for an accident could include construction contractors and engineering firms, or the city, county, or state. An accident victim may be able to hold these entities accountable for their negligence as well.

In order to prevail on a negligence claim, the plaintiff must demonstrate that the defendant owed the plaintiff a duty of care, the defendant breached that duty of care, the plaintiff’s injuries were a direct consequence of the defendant’s breach, and actual damages arose. Negligence claims are heavily fact-intensive, and thoroughly investigating an accident scene is critical to establishing your case.

After a work zone accident, it is important to act quickly so that your attorney can collect evidence efficiently and also comply with applicable procedural rules. Under Georgia law, as in many other states, plaintiffs have a limited amount of time to file a lawsuit. An accident victim must file his or her personal injury claim within two years of the date of the wreck.

Work zone accidents can have serious consequences for a victim and his or her family. In the aftermath of a collision, everyone involved is left with a challenging situation and few answers. We understand that this is a difficult time, which is why we are committed to handling your case with care and compassion. At Miller Legal Services, Marietta car accident lawyer Norman Miller can help you pursue the compensation you deserve for your harm. He also represents people in Roswell, Smyrna, and other areas of Georgia. Call us at 770-284-3727 or contact us online for a free consultation with a motor vehicle collision attorney.