Atlanta Road Construction Projects: Avoid the Danger Zones

Posted in: Car Accidents by Graham Scofield Injury Lawyers

Construction projects are a common occurrence on the roads and highways in Atlanta. While they are intended to improve the city, they can be quite dangerous for motorists who drive through them as well as workers who work on them.

Since there are a number of Atlanta construction projects that are happening and will happen in the near future, it’s important to be extra cautious when you’re driving in an area with signs, barrels, and lane changes so you can avoid construction accidents.

If you sustain an injury while driving through a construction zone, consult our experienced Atlanta car accident lawyers at Graham Scofield Injury Lawyers as soon as possible. We can help you determine liability and educate you on your legal options. Call us at (404) 939-9470 or use our online contact form today.

Construction Projects in Atlanta

If you drive around Atlanta on a regular basis, you’ve likely noticed the various construction projects that are going on. There is currently an interchange reconstruction of I-16/I-95 as well as the widening of I-16. In the year 2022, the city has plans to reconstruct I-285/I-20 East and add express lanes to I-285 Eastside and SR 400.

Even later down the road in the 2025, there are projects planned to widen I-85 and add a commercial vehicle lane to I-75. Essentially, there is always some type of construction project occurring or in the works in Atlanta.

Common Causes of Construction Zone Accidents

There are several reasons construction accidents occur. One of the most common causes is drivers who speed and weave through the zones and completely disregard the safety of others. Improper lane changing that arises when drivers change lanes in areas that are marked with solid lines and are illegal to drive on lead to construction crashes as well.

In some cases, a construction accident is the result of how the construction zone is set up or the negligence of a construction worker. For example, poorly marked lanes may confuse a driver and lead them to side swipe another vehicle.

How to Remain Safe When Driving Near Construction

While you can’t control the construction projects in the city, you can take certain safety precautions to keep yourself as well as other motorists and construction workers safe while you drive through construction zones. Here are some tips to help you do so.

Stay alert: Pay full attention to the roadway or highway when entering a construction zone. Refrain from texting, fumbling with your radio controls, or engaging in other distractions that divert your attention from the road. If you see a flagger directing traffic, adhere to their directions and watch for brake lights on vehicles in front of you so that you can react appropriately.
Scan the signs: If you notice diamond-shaped warning signs, electronic message boards, or cones, you are likely approaching a construction zone. Slow down and prepare yourself for traffic changes ahead.
Obey the speed limit: Speed limits are almost always reduced in construction zones. Be sure to follow them as speeding can pose a significant risk for other motorists and construction workers alike.
Allow plenty of room between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you: Get into the habit of keeping a safe distance between your vehicle, the vehicle in front of you, and any trucks, construction equipment, and traffic barriers.
Stay Updated on Traffic Conditions – You can visit www.511ga.org for real-time traffic information or call 511. It is also a good idea to follow GDOT on social media handles such as Twitter for live updates.
Wear Your Seatbelt – You should wear your seatbelt in all work zones and always when driving in order to minimize your risk of an accident.

Contact Graham Scofield Injury Lawyers

If you’ve been hurt in an accident while driving through an Atlanta construction zone, it is in your best interest to reach out to Graham Scofield Injury Lawyers. We’ve represented many victims who have suffered injuries caused by negligence in construction zones and are committed to ensuring your rights are protected. Call us at (404) 939-9470 today.