The Dangers of Road Construction Work Zones
Florida has seemingly endless scenic highways, roadways, and bridges that both its residents and visitors utilize to enjoy all that our beautiful state has to offer. All of these public areas have to continuously be maintained and it seems like additional roadways are constantly being added. All of this construction is clearly beneficial as it ensures that our highways, roadways, and bridges remain safe and can keep up with changing traffic patterns. However, all of this never-ending construction can, unfortunately, lead to tragic results for the individuals who work in these construction work zones.
Click Orlando recently reported that a 59-year-old worker died when he was struck in the head by a large iron pipe while at a work zone for the I-4 Ultimate project. Tragically, this is the fourth reported death of a worker in connection with the $2.3 billion project since it began in 2015. In response, the Florida Department of Transportation halted construction of the project until it completes a review of the safety measures currently being used in the work zone.
How Dangerous Can Work Zones Be?
While many safety regulations have been put into place in an effort to prevent work zone accidents, unfortunately, these sites continue to carry the potential for serious danger for road construction workers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), 1,571 workers lost their lives at road construction work zone sites between 2003-2015. And sadly, the state of Florida ranks second in the nation for having the most worker deaths at road construction sites.
What Factors Can Lead to Work Zone Transportation Accidents?
- Speeding
- Impaired driving
- Texting and driving
- Lack of seatbelt use
What Are the Primary Causes of Worker Fatalities?
BLS also reported that 73 percent of roadway work zone fatal occupational injuries can be attributed to transportation events. However, worker fatalities can happen in work zones as a result of multiple causes such as:
- Runovers
- Backovers
- Collisions between vehicles
- Failing to use appropriate signage on site
- Being struck by construction equipment and objects
What is the Upcoming National Campaign That Will Spotlight These Issues?
National Work Zone Awareness Week 2019 will take place from April 8th through the 12th. This is an annual spring campaign that is promoted at the start of construction season and is intended to encourage safe driving through highway work zones. It also serves as a memorial in featuring the names of more than 1,400 individuals who have been killed in work zone crashes.
Have You Been Injured at Your Road Construction Work Zone?
Despite your best efforts to remain as safe as possible at work, there are many factors outside of your control that can cause a workplace injury in a work zone. If you or a loved one has suffered an injury while working in a construction work zone, allow us to help. The Miami workers’ compensation attorneys at Payer & Associates have significant experience helping people like you and you should allow us to help you get the benefits you deserve. Begin by contacting us today to schedule a free consultation.
Resource:
clickorlando.com/news/what-osha-investigators-found-in-previous-i-4-ultimate-worker-deaths
