Construction zones are hazardous stretches of highway. Accidents happen frequently. Most at risk are the construction zone workers themselves as they work there all day. Motorcycle riders are also at risk, simply because they are very exposed to hazards like speeding drivers or obstacles scattered across the route through the construction zone.
Drivers are expected to behave with restraint when they negotiate a construction zone, but there are always a few who drive impatiently and that’s when people get hurt. If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident in a construction zone you may be able to claim compensation; talk to a personal injury lawyer about your legal options.
Why Construction Zones are Accident Prone
Motorcycle riders have to great care when riding through a construction zone. These parts of the highway can seem quite chaotic, with barriers, signs, machinery, workers and lines of impatient weary road users. Many construction zones do their best to keep the traffic moving safely, but some are not so well managed.
Poor signage and a lack of control over machinery and worksite materials can create a difficult environment. As a motorcycle rider there are multiple potential hazards in a construction zone.
An accident may be caused by any of the following:
- Hit by a machine used in construction zone work:
- Unstable road surfaces, holes, or loose objects or construction site material like rocks or mounds of gravel in the way.
- Hit by another vehicle whose driver is distracted, tired, aggressively driving, speeding or intoxicated.
How to File a Claim After a Motorcycle Accident in a Construction Zone
A claim for compensation can be made if the accident was due to negligence on someone else’s part. This may be the fault of the construction zone personnel or management itself, e.g. if traffic lights or signals are not working properly.
It may be due to negligent driving by a construction zone worker using machinery. It might be due to negligence on the part of another road user. If negligence can be proven, it may be worth pursuing a personal injury claim with the help of an attorney.
In addition to proof of negligence, it will be necessary to have supporting evidence of damages sought. This normally includes both economic and non-economic damages. The following are typical damages claimed after such an accident.
- cost of medical treatment;
- loss of earnings;
- property damage, particularly damage to the motorcycle. This may either cover the repair or replacement of the machine if it is a write-off.
- a payment for pain and suffering.
Why Should You Choose to Use a Personal Injury Lawyer?
Claims for compensation are normally filed with the at-fault party’s insurer. Construction zone accidents can become quite complicated, as there may be more than one party at fault e.g. the construction zone company itself and another road user.
You are advised to use an experienced personal injury lawyer throughout the claim process. Most personal injury lawyers offer contingency fee arrangements which defer any legal fees until a claim is settled satisfactorily.
