Injured in a Tampa Roadside Construction Zone: What Are My Options?
Roadside construction zones are dangerous for various reasons. First and foremost, the construction workers in these areas face threats from passing vehicles. However, average motorists also face hazards when passing by construction zones – and these areas often trigger some of the worst car accidents imaginable. What should you do if you were injured in a Tampa roadside construction accident?
Motorist Strikes Two Roadside Workers Near Tampa
In October of 2024, it was reported that a motorist had struck two workers operating in a roadside construction zone near Tampa. Authorities say that the man “rammed” through the work zone despite being flagged to stop, causing life-threatening injuries for the two victims. These workers were attempting to clear out a flooded roadway partially washed away by recent extreme weather in the region.
For whatever reason, the motorist decided to drive around the barricades and construction vehicles before entering the work zone. He then accelerated into the area where two men were working, struck them, and fled the scene.
The man was eventually tracked down by police officers and charged with multiple offenses, including attempted vehicular homicide, assault with a deadly weapon, and leaving the scene of a crash.
What Are My Legal Options After a Roadside Construction Crash?
You may have various legal options after a roadside construction crash, and the most appropriate course of action depends on your unique circumstances. As an injured worker, you may turn to workers’ compensation. However, a personal injury lawsuit may also be possible – and it could provide more financial support compared to workers’ comp.
Workers’ comp does not cover non-economic damages such as PTSD, disfigurement, and loss of enjoyment of life. In contrast, you can claim these damages in a serious injury lawsuit. While employees are generally barred from suing their direct employers, there is nothing stopping them from suing other negligent parties – including drivers.
If you were injured as a motorist, you might need to consider alternative strategies. Since workers’ comp isn’t possible if you weren’t working at the time, you could potentially argue that the work zone was inherently unsafe. Perhaps the cones or signs were confusing. Maybe these signs led you into oncoming traffic. If this was the case, you may be able to sue the city or the contractor responsible for the construction site.
Finally, you may be able to sue another motorist who caused your crash. Perhaps street racers caused you to veer into a construction zone before impacting concrete barriers. Perhaps a cement truck rear-ended you while trying to access the construction zone. All of these situations could potentially lead to lawsuits.
Can a Tampa Accident Lawyer Help?
If a roadside construction accident has harmed you or someone you love, consider contacting an experienced Tampa car accident lawyer. These legal professionals can help you take decisive action, whether you were injured as a worker or motorist. To learn more about your legal options, contact Anderson & Anderson today.
Source:
wtsp.com/article/news/local/pinellascounty/driver-crashes-into-construction-workers-palm-harbor-pinellas-county/67-2e30c7d7-cccf-4244-b6bd-0c84783c511c
