Anyone who has spent any amount of time driving knows that there is only
one thing they can expect: the unexpected. The situation on the road can
change at a moment’s notice and it is the duty of all drivers to be
mindful of their surroundings. This is exactly what the Arizona Department
of Transportation had in mind when officials renewed calls for safety
in road-work zones.
The Arizona Director of Transportation stressed the need to be mindful
of construction zones and state laws that require drivers to respond accordingly.
Arizona’s Move Over Law was designed to protect drivers pulled to
the side of the road. In 2011, the law was expanded to require drivers
to move over one lane when they encounter all vehicles pulled over with
flashing lights on — including road construction trucks.
Recent efforts came in response to the death of a road construction worker
in another state. No road construction workers have passed away in a
vehicle-related accident since 2006; however, dozens have died over the last six decades.
The incident, which is fresh in the mind of transportation officials, is
a stark reminder of how exposed road construction workers are every day
they go to work. In fact, highway construction is among the riskiest professions
in the country.
In many construction-related accidents, workers’ compensation benefits
are in line for workers and their families, but those benefits may not
be enough to offset the full extent of the damage and pain. Civil claims
may be an option when a third party bears responsibility for a construction
accident. Through this process, injured workers and their loved ones can
continue down the long road to recovery.
Source: Southeast Valley Ledger, ” ADOT urges drivers to slow down, move
over in highway work zones,” Dec. 12, 2012
- Our firm has experience sorting through the details of construction site
accidents to help victims understand their legal rights under Arizona
personal injury laws.
Call or text 602-682-5270 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
