Highway safety matters. Safe, careful driving is especially important in work zones. According to data cited by the National Safety Council (NSC), 37,701 people were injured and 891 people were killed in highway work zone collisions in the United States in 2022 alone. These accidents can happen for a wide range of different reasons. Here, our Charleston car accident attorney provides an overview of the main causes of highway work zone collisions.
1. Distracted Driving
Too many motorists in South Carolina fail to recognize the presence of a highway work zone until it is too late. Why? Distracted driving. Indeed, driver distraction is a leading cause of highway work zone crashes. Work zones often require quick reactions to unexpected changes, such as merging lanes or slowed traffic. Distracted drivers may fail to notice warning signs, cones, or workers near the road. Texting and driving is the most common (and dangerous) type of distracted driving.
2. Speeding
Speeding in work zones is extremely dangerous. It is a significant factor in many accidents. Virtually all work zones in South Carolina have reduced speed limits to account for narrow lanes, sudden stops, and workers in close proximity to traffic. When drivers exceed these limits, they increase the likelihood of losing control or being unable to stop in time. High speed puts workers at risk.
3. Improper Lane Changes
Improper lane changes often lead to collisions in highway work zones, where lanes may be reduced or shifted. Drivers who fail to signal, check blind spots, or yield to others during a lane change can cause crashes in these already hazardous areas. The confusion caused by temporary lane configurations and unclear signage can exacerbate the safety risk.
4. Tailgating (Following Too Closely)
Tailgating is particularly dangerous in highway work zones, where sudden stops are common. Drivers who follow too closely risk rear-ending vehicles ahead if traffic slows unexpectedly. Narrow lanes and reduced shoulder space in work zones leave little room for error. Tailgating also creates a chain reaction risk. It can contribute to serious multi-vehicle pileups.
5. Improper/Inadequate Warning Signs
It is imperative that highway construction zones are well-marked. Government entities and private road contractors have a responsibility to ensure that drivers have adequate time to adjust to upcoming work zones. The work zone should be properly marked throughout.
6. Poor Visibility
Poor visibility is a common factor in highway work zone crashes, especially during nighttime construction, adverse weather conditions, or insufficient lighting. Drivers may struggle to see workers, barriers, or temporary lane markings, increasing the risk of collisions.
Get Help From Our Charleston Highway Work Zone Accident Lawyers Today
At Query Sautter & Associates, LLC, our Charleston car accident attorneys have the skills and experience to take on all types of highway work zone collisions. If you have any questions or concerns about highway work zone collisions, please do not hesitate to contact us today. With an office in Charleston, our attorneys represent victims throughout South Carolina.