In the second volume of “On the Move,” the Illinois Transportation Secretary speaks of the importance of adhering to work zone laws in order to ensure that workers are safe in these zones. Illinois car accident lawyers at Pintas & Mullins Law Firm strongly support this effort to cut down on the number of work zone accidents.
The secretary spoke of an employee who lost his life in a tragic work zone accident last year. This was just one of more than 7000 work zone crashes in 2011, which resulted in more than 20 deaths.
In order to avoid a work zone accident, drivers need to use extra caution. As soon as you spot an orange sign, you should slow down and keep to the work zone speed restrictions. Other dangerous distractions to avoid include texting while driving, or using any sort of handheld safety device.
What Is a Work zone Crash?
According to the Illinois Department of Transportation, a work zone crash is a traffic crash involving a motor vehicle within the limits of a work zone or resulting from traffic moving through the work zone.
It is not necessary for workers to be there at the time of the wreck for it to be regarded as a work zone crash.
Work Zone Crash that Killed One and Severely Injured Two
Earlier this year, stltoday.com reported on a serious construction zone accident. It happened when a car cut through the zone while workers were getting ready to paint new highway stripes. The crash killed one worker and seriously injured three others. The driver of the car responsible for the crash also suffered severe bodily injuries.
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A witness said he saw the driver veer in and out of the center median and the shoulder right before the crash. The car then steered unexpectedly around construction signs and made its way through heavy traffic at uneven speeds. Finally, while traveling about 60 mph, the car smashed into the back of the construction truck. The impact of the crash threw the car’s frame onto the exterior shoulder of the highway.
Illinois drivers are banned from talking on cell phones when moving through a highway construction zone where speeds have been reduced. Drivers found speeding through the state’s work zones may be fined a minimum of $375 for the first offense and a minimum of $1000 for the second.
If you are a driver, passenger or worker that has been injured in a work zone accident, you may be entitled to significant compensation. Construction zone accident attorneys at Pintas & Mullins Law Firm can explain your legal rights and fight for maximum compensation.
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