Like most part of the country, the city of Phoenix and the surrounding areas are recovering strongly after the recession that hit a few years ago. But unlike some other parts of the nation, Phoenix is responding with rapid growth and development, leading to new and continued construction projects in many parts of the Valley.
In the long run, this will be fantastic news for residents who will benefit from new and improved roads, new shopping centers and office buildings, and even new homes. But in the short run, this construction boom is expected to cause delays, congestion, and even some car accidents on the roadways.
The expanse of anticipated construction projects has lead the City of Phoenix to search for new employees simply to handle all the documents associated with the projects and to provide guidelines to builders. But once these projects start, it is up to motorists nearby, the employees themselves, and those running the construction sites to ensure that everything is as safe as it can be.
As a motorist, you bear a large responsibility when you operate in or near a construction zone in Maricopa County. You agree to be bound by the rules of the road as they apply to active construction as you drive in these zones and deviating from any legal duties may have long lasting repercussions on your life. In fact, a division of the U.S. Federal Highway Administration, The National Work Zone Safety Information Clearinghouse concluded that 11 fatalities took place in work zones in Arizona alone in 2014 and it is believed that safer driving would have prevented the majority of these incidents.
If you approach a construction zone, experts advise that you change your state of mind to focus on the new and potentially dangerous driving requirements of these work areas. Make sure you obey all posted signs related to the work and obey any directions given to you by uniformed employees. In most cases, work zones have decreased speed limits so be aware of that and slow down if necessary and be prepared for traffic to be backed up throughout the work zone. While it may be tempting to get closer to other vehicles do to the slowed nature of transit in construction zones, resist the urge to tailgate or to follow too closely because doing so will significantly increase your chance of being involved in a rear-end car accident.
While in a construction zone, only change lanes when safe to do so and when allowed as some work areas forbid lane changes. Also, keep your headlights on, constantly monitor your surroundings, and be prepared to stop with little notice.
If you are involved in a car accident in the greater Phoenix area, know that you may be entitled to seek compensation for your damages through a civil claim. The personal injury lawyers at Abels & Annes, P.C. can help you realize your legal options following your case, including whether you have a valid claim, if you choose to call us toll free at (855) PHX-LAWYER or locally at (602) 918-5191. We offer all injury victims and their family members a case consultation without cost or obligation and we have an attorney standing by 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year.
If you have questions after a traffic crash, call Abels & Annes, P.C. now and let us fight for you.
Prior Blog Entry:
Semi-Truck Accidents and the Risks for Rollovers, Phoenix Injury Lawyer Blog, published February 18, 2016.
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