Anyone who has spent significant time driving on Maryland roads knows that they are seemingly always under construction. Indeed, according to a report from the Maryland Department of Transportation, there are currently twelve major construction projects underway or about to begin along the I-270 corridor alone.
For the most part, the fact that the government is investing in the state’s roadways is a good thing. However, with so many construction projects underway, motorists are put at an in increased danger of being involved in a Maryland construction zone accident. At the same time, construction workers are also put in danger and, under a new Maryland law, motorists have a duty to either slow down significantly or change lanes as they approach roadside construction crews.
Construction zones are notorious for presenting motorists and workers with unseen and unanticipated hazards. Crews should take care to ensure that there is accurate signage leading up to the area clearly indicating how drivers should navigate the construction zone. Additionally, construction workers must keep open lanes free of debris and safe for travel; however, even the most well-intentioned construction crew can make mistakes.
One of the more common mistakes construction workers make is leaving large construction vehicles blocking or partially blocking a lane of travel. When a construction crew is operating a paver, bulldozer, or other large vehicle, precautions must be taken to ensure the safety of passing motorists. If a construction vehicle is being used in a lane that is currently open for travel, the vehicle should have flashing yellow lights alerting drivers to its presence. Similarly, slow-moving vehicles should operate in closed lanes when possible.
One Man Killed in Construction Zone Accident
Earlier this month, one man was killed in a construction zone accident when he rear-ended a truck that was part of a construction detail. According to a local news report covering the fatal accident, the construction truck was last in a line of other construction vehicles. The truck was moving slowly at the time of the crash, although the truck’s exact speed is not yet available.
Authorities are currently investigating the fatal accident, and have not yet commented on whether the driver of the construction vehicle that was involved in the crash was complying with all regulations.
Have You Been Injured in a Maryland Truck Accident?
If you or a loved one has recently been injured in a Maryland construction zone accident, you may be able to recover for your injuries through a Maryland personal injury lawsuit. The dedicated Maryland truck accident lawyers at the law firm of Lebowitz & Mzhen, LLC have extensive experience handling all types of Maryland truck accidents, including those occurring in construction zones. To learn more about how we can help you obtain the compensation you deserve for the injuries you have sustained, call 410-654-3600 to schedule a free consultation today. Calling is free, and we will not bill you for our services unless we area able to help you obtain the compensation you deserve.
More Blog Posts:
What Is an Insurance Guaranty and How It Can Help Maryland Accident Victims Recover for Their Injuries?, Maryland Trucking Accident Lawyer Blog, published October 17, 2018.
Court Rejects Truck Accident Victim’s Claim That Power Company Provided Inadequate Lighting, Maryland Trucking Accident Lawyer Blog, published November 5, 2018.