Chicago Work Zone Accidents

Hundreds of roadway construction and maintenance projects occur in Illinois every year and the work zones that surround them are often hazardous environments for drivers. Unfortunately, many drivers do not proceed with caution through work zones. As a result, thousands of work zone crashes occur every year, leaving victims uncertain about their rights and how to recover compensation for the losses they suffer.

At Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard P.C., our team of experienced Chicago work zone accident lawyers can help you identify the responsible party and seek maximum compensation for your injuries and associated losses. With a deep understanding of work zone laws and regulations and a proven track record of successful results, Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard P.C. will fight hard for your case. We are not afraid to hold big construction companies or government entities accountable.

Contact Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard P.C. today for a free consultation with a Chicago work zone accident attorney.

What Is Considered a Work Zone in Illinois?

According to the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), a work zone is an area of a highway where maintenance, construction, or utility work occurs. Signs, cones, drums, barriers, pavement markings, or work vehicles may mark a work zone. The zone begins at the first warning sign, which might state “Road Construction Ahead” or “Road Work Ahead,” and ends with an “End Road Work” sign. Alternatively, it may begin and end with the placement of temporary traffic control devices.

An incident is considered a work zone accident if one of the following applies:

  • The first harmful event of the accident occurred within the boundaries of a work zone.
  • The first harmful event of the accident occurred when approaching or exiting a work zone due to activity related to the work zone.

How Many Work Zone Accidents Occur in Illinois Each Year?

According to IDOT, an average of 6,012 work zone crashes occurred each year over a recent five-year period in Illinois, injuring 1,574 people and killing 144 people. Six of those who lost their lives were road workers. The remaining were vehicle occupants. In one recent year, approximately 51.7 percent of fatal work zone crashes involved a heavy vehicle.

What Are the Most Common Types of Work Zone Accidents?

Some of the most common work zone accidents include:

  • Rear-end collisions
  • Lane change accidents
  • Head-on collisions
  • Crashes with stationary objects
  • Pedestrian accidents
  • Speed-related accidents
  • Distracted driving accidents
  • Drunk driving accidents
  • Heavy machinery accidents

Dangers of Work Zones

Work zones present various dangers to drivers and construction workers, including the following:

  • Stopped vehicles 
  • Reduced speed limits
  • Limited visibility 
  • Channelizing devices 
  • Altered traffic patterns 
  • Narrowed lanes 
  • Confusing signs
  • Distractions 
  • Pedestrian hazards 
  • Heavy vehicles 
  • Human stop-and-go sign traffic direction 

Who Can Be Held Liable for a Work Zone Accident?

Which party bears liability for a work zone accident depends on the specific facts and circumstances of the case. Here are some parties that could bear liability:

  • Motor vehicle driver – A driver whose negligence causes a collision could be liable for injuries. For example, if a driver failed to reduce their speed through a work zone and rear-ended the vehicle in front of them, they could be liable.
  • Construction company – The construction company must implement proper safety measures, such as adequately marking the work zone. If the company’s failure to do so causes a collision, victims could hold them accountable.
  • Truck drivers or trucking companies – If a truck driver carrying a load meant for use in the construction project causes a crash through their own wrongdoing, they or their employer could be liable for the resulting injuries. Similarly, if the cargo was improperly loaded or if the crash was the result of a defect on the truck, the cargo loading company or the truck manufacturer could be liable.
  • Workers – If a construction or maintenance worker’s negligence caused a work zone accident, they could be held liable. For example, a worker could be held responsible for a collision that occurred when they operated heavy machinery while drunk. 
  • Government entity – Government entities responsible for road maintenance and construction could bear liability if they fail to provide adequate warning signs, proper traffic control, or safe work practices in the work zone. They are also responsible for the negligent actions of their employees.
  • Equipment manufacturer – If defective equipment or materials used in the work zone caused a collision, the manufacturers might be liable.

Under Illinois law, multiple parties can share liability for an accident and still seek compensation for their associated losses. However, if a party is more than 50 percent at fault for the crash, they will be barred from recovering any compensation. If a party is less than 50 percent at fault, they can recover compensation, but their compensation is reduced by their degree of fault.

What Evidence Do You Need for a Work Zone Accident Case?

Collecting the right evidence is essential to building a strong case for a work zone accident. Evidence can establish liability, demonstrate negligence, and support your compensation claim. Here are key types of evidence to collect for a work zone accident case:

  • Photographs and video footage of the accident scene, including skid marks, debris, road conditions, and signage
  • Contact information and statements from witnesses who saw the crash happen, including other drivers and workers
  • Testimony from experts, such as accident reconstruction experts, engineering experts, and medical professionals
  • Police officer’s crash report
  • Medical records detailing injuries sustained in the collision and medical treatment
  • Work zone documentation, such as construction plans, safety protocols, and permits
  • Maintenance and inspection records

Contact Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard P.C. for Help with Your Work Zone Accident

You do not have to bear the burden of a work zone crash case on your own. At Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard P.C., we understand the physical, mental, and financial toll that car accidents in work zones can take on their victims. Our Chicago attorneys can guide you through the legal complexities, provide unwavering support, and fight relentlessly on your behalf. Contact Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard P.C. today for a free consultation with an experienced work zone accident lawyer in Chicago.