More than 40,000 people are injured each year as a result of work zone accidents.
Making our highways and roadways safer takes all of us. To that end, VDOT is restarting a safe roads campaign called, “Expect the Unexpected”.
The program aims to educate drivers about safer ways to drive through construction zones.
- Minimize distractions
Avoid activities when driving such as using cell phones, changing radio stations, eating or engaging in any activity that takes your eyes off the roadway. - Pay close attention
Signs and work zone flaggers can only save lives if you follow their directions. - Turn on your headlights
Workers and other motorists must see you. Many interstate projects are completed at night. - Don’t tailgate
Unexpected stops frequently occur in work zones. Be ready to stop if necessary. - Don’t speed
Note the speed limits in and around the work zone and abide by them. The fine for speeding in a construction zone can be up to $250.00 - Keep up with traffic flow
Dedicate your full attention to the road and those traveling around you. - Don’t change lanes in the work zone
The time saved just isn’t worth it. - Expect the unexpected
Keep an eye out for workers and their equipment. Many accidents occur when crews are backing up large trucks or equipment. - Be patient
Remember, the work zone crew members are working to improve your future travels.
Please visit the VDOT website for more infomation.
On average, 85% percent of fatalities that occur in work zones are drivers or passengers of cars.
Of utmost concern to citizens in and around the Roanoke Valley is work to I-81 and I-581. Avoiding construction when possible helps to minimize safety concerns and may save you time as well. Before traveling, dial 511 on your cell phone to hear the latest traffic information from VDOT.
Construction Zone Accidents are very complicated accidents. If you are injured in a work zone accident, you need to act quickly. Many of the factors that may have caused your accident, improper signage, improper lane closures,safety barriers, will be moved or changed as the construction project moves forward. You will need an attorney to preserve any evidence that proves that you were not at fault for the accident.
With any accident, be sure to take pictures of the scene as soon as possible. Have a friend or loved one do this if you are unable to. You should also ask someone to take pictures of your injuries and seek medical care immediately. Do not delay if you think that something is wrong.
If you are injured in a work zone accident or a construction zone accident, call Roanoke personal injury lawyer Paul Thomson of The Thomson Law Firm. Paul Thomson has represented hundreds of victims with serious injuries that include:
- TBI (traumatic brain injury)
- Paralysis
- Neck and Spine Injuries
- Loss of Limb
- Burn victims
- Back and shoulder injuries
- Knee Injuries
- Lacerations and Permanent Scarring
For a list of case results for Paul Thomson of The Thomson Law Firm, click here. For a FREE consultation, call The Thomson Law Firm at (540) 777-4900 .
