What to Expect if a Poorly Managed Construction Site Causes a Crash in Baton Rouge

Construction sites are complex environments that require careful management and adherence to safety protocols to ensure the well-being of workers and the general public. However, when a construction site is poorly managed, it can lead to catastrophic consequences, including crashes and accidents. Our Baton Rouge car accident attorneys can help you understand your rights and next steps following a crash at a poorly managed construction site.

With major construction initiatives underway in Baton Rouge, such as the I-10 widening project, it’s important to know the dangers of driving on construction sites and what to expect if you’re involved in an accident.

Road Construction Accidents in Baton Rouge

Baton Rouge, the capital city of Louisiana, is experiencing a significant amount of road construction due to its growing population and infrastructure demands. Unfortunately, road construction accidents are not uncommon in Baton Rouge, posing a threat to the safety of workers and motorists.

In 2021, there were 17 fatalities in Louisiana work zones, up from 14 the previous year. This led the Louisiana Department of Transportation (LDOT) to enact a Work Zone Awareness Week to highlight the importance of safe driving in a work zone. 

A 2019 Louisiana Transportation Research Center study reported 1,910 crashes inside the state’s DOT work zone boundaries. A more in-depth study found that 48.82% of work zone crashes were rear-ended accidents, and 19.86% were side-swipe-same direction collisions.

A poorly managed construction site in Baton Rouge can exhibit several characteristics that contribute to an increased risk of accidents:

• Inadequate signage and improper placement of warning signs may fail to alert drivers to the presence of a construction zone, increasing the likelihood of collisions.
• Insufficient traffic control measures, such as poorly marked lanes or lack of visible barriers, can create confusion and lead to accidents.
• Ineffective coordination between construction crews and drivers, especially during lane closures or detours, can result in chaotic traffic patterns and heightened accident risks.
• Failure to enforce speed limits or provide proper lighting in work zones can further heighten dangers associated with a poorly managed construction site.

Steps You Should Take After a Construction Site Crash

You can pursue a personal injury claim if you are involved in a road construction crash due to a construction company’s negligence. After an injury-causing collision, your attorney can help you with the following:

• Check for injuries. The first priority is ensuring you and your passengers are not injured. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately. Even if you don’t believe you are hurt, seek medical attention. This ensures you receive an accurate diagnosis and treatment and provides records for a potential insurance claim.

• Exchange information. If another driver is involved, exchange information such as name, address, insurance information, and driver’s license number. Note any identifying information of the construction company running the site so your attorney can investigate the accident.

• Document the scene of the accident. Take pictures of the damage to your vehicle, the other vehicle, and the construction site. Get witnesses’ names and contact information and take photos of any nearby traffic cameras, signage, and road or weather conditions.

• Contact a personal injury lawyer. If you were injured in the accident, you can file for compensation to reimburse you for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Contacting a skilled auto accident lawyer from Dudley DeBosier can help you understand your legal rights and options.

Special Considerations for Construction Site Accidents

If the construction site is owned or operated by a government agency, like the Louisiana DOT, your claim may be subject to specific liability rules. For example, under RS 9:2800, you must prove:

• The DOT was in control of the site where your injuries occurred
• The site or its conditions created an unreasonable risk of harm
• The DOT had constructive or actual knowledge of the defect or condition and did not take corrective measures within a reasonable time
• The defect or condition caused your injuries

Working with a knowledgeable attorney from our Baton Rouge offices can help you navigate your work zone accident and protect your best interests.

Get Help with Your Baton Rouge Car Accident Case

If you or a loved one has been injured due to a poorly managed construction site, take action today. Our Baton Rouge car accident attorneys at Dudley DeBosier Injury Lawyers have years of experience handling work zone crash claims and will guide you through the next steps to take after a collision.

Contact our legal team for a free consultation where we can discuss the legal options available to you.

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