Auto accidents can happen at any time and in many different circumstances in Indiana. While most will think about a collision between two vehicles, drivers might crash into motorcyclists, bicyclists and pedestrians. They can collide with people who are working on the roadway. This example is especially problematic because of the vulnerability of workers stationed at road work zones and construction sites. Drivers may travel too fast, drive while distracted, be under the influence, behave recklessly or commit other dangerous infractions that add to the risk of a collision. Understanding this issue is a fundamental part of improving safety.
Indiana saw spike in construction zone accidents in 2020
Statistically, there was a worrisome increase in auto accidents at construction work sites in 2020 when the numbers were compared to the previous year. The Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) said there were nearly 3,900 such accidents in 2020. This was approximately 1,000 more than there were in 2019. In these accidents, there were 26 fatalities.
Certain areas of Indiana were more dangerous than others. Northeast Indiana had 251 construction zone accidents, accounting for 6.5% of the overall total. One of the primary reasons is speeding. As the warm weather approaches and society gradually returns to normal after recent challenges, there will be more road projects to improve, maintain and repair the roads. This could result in crashes with people in the work zones, drivers and passengers suffering injuries and losing their lives.
Considering options to cover for loss after auto accidents
Motor vehicle accidents happen at unexpected moments with a variety of catalysts. Work zone collisions are particularly dangerous because the workers are relatively unprotected as they go about their tasks. They likely know that there is a chance that drivers will behave in an unsafe manner and they need to hope that they will make it home safely at the end of their workday. Unfortunately, there are times when they do not.
When there is an accident, there could be medical expenses, lost income from being unable to work and long-term challenges. When there is a fatality, there will be the emotional and personal aftermath along with funeral costs. An investigation is imperative to determine how and why it happened. Evidence must be accrued. For advice and guidance, having professional assistance from the start can be crucial to seeking a positive outcome.