Construction Zone Accidents on I-75

Interstate 75 (I-75) is a major highway stretching from Michigan to Florida and serving as one of the most important transportation routes in the United States. It carries a steady mix of commuters, long-distance travelers, and commercial trucks, making it vital to both local and national traffic flow.

Because of its length and heavy use, sections of I-75 are frequently under construction or improvement. These work zones are essential for maintaining the roadway, expanding capacity, and ensuring the interstate continues to serve the millions of vehicles that depend on it each year. Construction projects may involve narrowed lanes, reduced speed limits, lane shifts, and the presence of crews and equipment working near active traffic.

Understanding the risks associated with construction zone travel on I-75 is critical for both safety and legal reasons. Victims of work zone-related accidents may face complicated questions of liability, as factors such as signage, contractor practices, and driver behavior all play a role. For this reason, many people turn to experienced I-75 attorneys to help them navigate the aftermath of a construction zone accident and pursue fair compensation.

The Dangers of Construction Zones

Work zones along I-75 create conditions that greatly increase the likelihood of serious accidents. 

One of the leading causes is speeding. Even with posted reduced limits, many drivers fail to slow down. Traveling too fast through narrowed lanes leaves little margin for error and often leads to more severe collisions.

Distracted driving is another major issue. Phones, GPS systems, and other in-car distractions can cause drivers to miss sudden lane shifts, flagger directions, or stopped vehicles in congested areas. 

Sudden lane changes also pose risks in construction zones filled with cones, barriers, and lane reductions. Abrupt merging in heavy traffic frequently results in sideswipe or rear-end crashes.

The high presence of large trucks on I-75 adds further danger. As a major freight route, the interstate carries countless tractor-trailers that need far more distance to stop compared to smaller vehicles. In tight work zones, this creates heightened risks for passenger cars and motorcycles. 

Poor visibility makes matters worse, especially at night or in poorly marked zones where closures and reduced shoulders may not be clear until it’s too late to react safely.

Together, these factors explain why I-75 construction zone accidents are both common and severe. They also show how liability can be complex, sometimes involving multiple parties, including negligent drivers, contractors, and government agencies responsible for roadway safety.

Safety Tips for Driving Through Construction Zones on I-75

Staying safe in I-75 construction zones takes preparation, focus, and patience. 

The first and most critical step is slowing down as soon as you see warning signs or lane reduction notices. Reduced speed limits are posted for good reason. Narrow lanes and active work crews leave almost no room for mistakes, and higher speeds dramatically increase the likelihood of a crash.

Eliminating distractions before entering a work zone is also key. Putting phones away, setting navigation in advance, and concentrating fully on the roadway allows drivers to react quickly to sudden changes in traffic. 

Keeping a safe distance from the vehicle ahead and staying ready to brake helps prevent rear-end collisions when traffic stops unexpectedly.

Equally important is obeying construction signage and flagger directions. These provide vital instructions on detours, lane shifts, and shoulder reductions. 

For those driving near large trucks, leaving additional space is essential. Tractor-trailers require more time to stop and can have difficulty maneuvering in narrowed lanes.

By reducing speed, focusing on the road, and following construction guidance, drivers can greatly lower their chances of being involved in an accident on I-75. These precautions not only protect drivers and passengers but also help keep construction workers safe as they work to maintain and improve the interstate.

Legal Options Following a Construction Zone Accident

If you’ve been injured in a crash near the I-75 intersection improvement project, you may have the right to pursue a personal injury claim. Depending on the situation, liability could fall on another driver, a construction contractor, or even a government agency that failed to properly design or maintain the roadway.

An experienced I-75 accident attorney can help determine:

• Whether another driver’s negligence, such as distracted or aggressive driving, was to blame.
• If hazardous construction conditions, like inadequate signage or confusing detours, contributed to the accident.
• What insurance coverage is available, particularly if the at-fault driver carries insufficient limits.

Pursuing compensation after a construction zone crash requires strong evidence, including photographs, police reports, and witness statements.

Steps to Take After a Work Zone Accident on I-75

If you’re hurt in a work zone accident, taking the right steps is essential to safeguard your health and your legal rights. Start by ensuring everyone’s safety and seeking medical care immediately; even if injuries appear minor, since some may not show symptoms right away.

Be sure to report the crash to the appropriate authorities, including the police and, if applicable, the construction site supervisor. This creates an official record of the incident. 

Collecting evidence at the scene is also critical. Photograph the roadway, signage, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. If there are witnesses, gather their contact information and statements, as their accounts can help establish liability.

Writing down your own version of events soon after the crash is another smart step, as it preserves important details while they’re fresh in your memory. 

Finally, working with an attorney experienced in work zone accident cases can make a meaningful difference. A lawyer will help preserve evidence, guide you through the claims process, and pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Taking these actions promptly can greatly improve your ability to protect your rights and recover damages.

Contact a Construction Zone Lawyer

A construction zone accident on I-75 can change your life in an instant. Our team is here to listen and guide you through the legal process. Speak with an experienced I-75 construction zone accident lawyer today to get the support and compensation you deserve.