Construction can cause severe accidents, especially when distracted drivers are involved.
Vehicle Struck from Behind on I-35, Driver and Passenger Hospitalized
According to a KSAT News report, two people are in the hospital following a rear-end collision on I-35 early Saturday morning.
Police reported the incident occurred on the entrance ramp of the 10700 Block of I-35 at around 2:35 a.m. on December 2nd. The driver of a Kia Soul was apparently forced to merge quickly due to construction barrels blocking part of the road near the ramp. During this maneuver, they were struck from behind by a Ford F150, causing them to spin multiple times before crashing. The driver of the Ford exited the highway and abandoned his vehicle, running away on foot. The driver of the Kia and their passenger were taken to the hospital; one was listed in critical condition.
Did You Know?
954 people were killed in work-zone accidents in 2021.
Work Zone Accidents in San Antonio
Redirected traffic, constantly changing lanes, cones everywhere — we know it’s your favorite part of your morning commute (said no one ever).
Updates to major roadways are necessary to meet the growing population and changing demand, but they also create major headaches. Aside from being majorly annoying, the changing patterns and closed shoulders make a dangerous combination that can increase traffic accidents and fatalities.
Texas led the nation in work zone fatalities in 2021. Let’s take a look at why these accidents happen and what to do if you’re injured in a construction zone accident this holiday season.
Work Zone Accident Fatality Data
Work zone accidents affect many groups, but none more than drivers. In Texas, a breakdown of those most likely to be killed in a work zone accident is as follows:
- Drivers — Drivers are most likely to be killed, whether as a worker on-site or a passer-by (66.5%)
- Pedestrians — Workers, jaywalkers, and other pedestrians are next most likely at 16.9%
- Passengers — Other motor vehicle occupants come in close behind pedestrians at 14.4%
- Bicyclist — This group comes in last at 1.3%
Clearly, drivers are disproportionately affected by construction zone accidents.
Causes of Work Zone Accidents
There are many reasons why work zone accidents happen, but some of the most common include:
Poorly Placed Signage
Construction should be done so drivers have adequate time to react to roadway changes and closures, but this isn’t always the case. When poor signage or sudden changes are present on the road, drivers are more likely to get into an accident.
Distracted Driving
Drivers who aren’t paying attention to the road cause about 80% of all auto accidents. It’s especially important to be alert when driving through a construction zone.
Changes in Road Grade
Shifting lanes sometimes leave motorists driving on what used to be the shoulder. Especially for motorcyclists and inexperienced drivers, this sudden change can lead to losing control of the vehicle.
Confusing Lanes and Detours
Temporary lanes can take sharp curves or just be unclear, causing drivers to become confused. This increases the likelihood of accidental lane-splitting and erratic movements, which can very easily cause a bad accident.
Injured in a Work Zone Accident? Call Carabin Shaw
If you were injured in a work zone accident, multiple parties could be to blame. Call our team to find out for free at 800-862-1260. Carabin Shaw has been representing those injured in construction zone accidents for 30 years, and we always put our clients first. We look forward to serving you.
Contacting a Carabin Shaw attorney is free and does not obligate you to work with the firm.