Construction zones can be hazardous both to drivers and those working within the zones.
When large trucks enter these tight driving spaces, it can even be more dangerous. Statistics by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration reveal that between 2007 and 2011, there were nearly 1,000 deaths in construction zones attributed to large trucks or buses, highlighting how deadly it can be when truckers driving large commercial vehicles are careless when they enter a construction zone.
Frequency Of Truck Accidents In Construction Zones
Work or construction zones on highways and roads are a hotbed for accidents, especially with large trucks. In 2010, there were over 87,000 vehicle accidents in work zones with almost 600 fatalities. It is staggering that an estimated 25% of all the fatalities involved large trucks. Considering that only about 10% of all registered vehicles are classified as large trucks, truckers drive nearly 16% of the total miles each year by all registered vehicles. A disproportionate number of accidents that occur in work zones are caused by large trucks.
Characteristics Of Construction Zone Accidents
Work or construction zones involve lane closures, reduced driving space, and tight driving maneuverability. Most work zones are well marked and have reduced speed limits to deter accidents, yet these crashes still occur frequently at a rate of about one every few minutes. According to the Federal Highway Administration, here are some of the common characteristics of construction zone crashes in 2008:
- 60% of accidents happened during daytime hours, 40% at night
- 31% of construction zone accidents involved speeding
- 22% of fatal crashes occurred on interstates
Also, in a study of over 17,000 work zone crashes, rear-end crashes were the most common type of accident. In most large truck construction zone accidents, the truck was driving straight on a level road right before the crash occurred.
Causes Of Large Truck Accidents In Construction Zones
Truck drivers that enter construction zones that are on tight time schedules or that are fatigued from driving long hours can be dangerous to both those working in the zones and to occupants of other vehicles around them. Although there are limitations on a number of hours truck drivers can be behind the wheel, even when they adhere to these regulations they may have been driving for 10 or more hours in a day, driving up to 70 hours a week. There can also be pressure put on these drivers by trucking companies to deliver their loads quickly to increase profits, making it more likely for them to speed or not take the breaks they need.
Complexity Of Construction Zone Truck Accidents
Any time there is an injury caused by a large truck accident, there are many factors that can determine who exactly is liable to pay for the injuries and damages. Depending on the circumstances, the driver, trucking company and even the company that contracted the driver can be monetarily liable. When the accident happens in a construction zone, there also may be unique aspects of the crash that need to be considered. Victims of these crashes, whether workers or passengers in other vehicles, may need legal assistance to ensure the
y receive the compensation they deserve for their injuries. An experienced truck accident lawyer that is familiar with truck accidents can help investigate the accident and negotiate the best settlement with the liable parties and insurance companies.
California Trucking Accident Law Firm Assisting Individuals & Families Injured In Road Work Zones By Trucks
A truck accident on a road or highway work zone can be devastating not just for the car that is impacted, but also the workers and other motorists in the area. Jimmie Kang Law Firm knows the destruction an out of control semi can impose when a truck crashes into a series of stopped cars or workers in the adjacent area. Our law firm has a history of obtaining a significant recovery for each of these types of accidents and will do what is necessary to do the same for you. We have a team of accident investigators and engineers who can be deployed to the scene of an accident within hours. Contact us now and begin the process of getting a truck accident law firm working for you.
