Distracted Driving Through Work Zone
October 7, 2019
Construction workers and engineers who are responsible for maintaining our roads and highways work very hard to build new roads and bridges, repair existing roads, and fill cracks and potholes. Work zones can be dangerous, particularly when large, heavy machinery is often used to move heavy objects, dig trenches, or help workers complete tasks they would not otherwise be able to do. While all these factors can make work zones hazardous, the motorists who are driving through work zones can seriously endanger the lives of workers if they are distracted.
Over the past 10 years, the use of smartphones has gone up exponentially. There has also been a significant increase in car accidents in the United States, many of which were caused by a driver who was distracted by their phone. This type of behavior is extremely dangerous when driving through a work zone, particularly if a worker is near the road and the driver is not paying attention.
A recent survey looked at the way drivers perceived the safety impact of certain distractions, and how much drivers understood the signage and pavement markings in work zones. The results indicated that roughly half of the drivers engaged in activities that were distracting, even though they knew that it was potentially dangerous. In addition, drivers were more likely to comply with work-zone speed limits if there were workers on site, or heavy equipment was being used.
Drive Safely Through Work Zones
Many of these tips should always be followed, but when driving through a work zone, a moment of distraction can have devastating consequences if a worker is seriously injured.
- Put the smartphone away. To avoid temptation to answer a call or read a text, put the phone away until you are no longer driving. Distracted driving is more likely to cause serious accidents in work zones because of the increased traffic, smaller lanes, and other obstacles in the vicinity.
- Decrease speed when approaching a work zone.
- Do not tailgate.
- Merge safely; construction zones often have lane closures.
- Stay in your lane unless changing lanes is necessary.
Baltimore Workers’ Compensation Lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton Seek Compensation for Victims of Work Zone Accidents
If you or a loved one was injured while on the job at a work zone, you are urged to contact the Baltimore Workers’ Compensation lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton. Depending on the nature of your injury, you may be eligible for lost wages, disability benefits, and other financial compensation related to your injury. We will work tirelessly to ensure that you receive the full financial benefits that you deserve. To schedule a free consultation, call us today at 844-556-4LAW (4529) or contact us online. Located in Baltimore, we serve clients throughout Maryland.
