Rear-End Accidents the Most Common Crash in Work Zones

Rear-end collisions are one of the most common types of car accidents in Indiana and across the country, with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimating that they account for nearly a third of all crashes. Indiana construction zones are particularly common sites for these accidents. In fact, rear-end accidents are the most common type of construction zone collision. 

Understanding Rear-End Crashes in Indiana Work Zones

A rear-end collision is one in which the front end of one car collides with the rear end of another vehicle ahead of it in traffic. These collisions are common in construction zones where speed and traffic constantly shift. Construction zone accidents can cause life-altering injuries to the occupants of both vehicles and construction workers in the vicinity of the crash. To combat this, Indiana heavily fines drivers who speed within work zones.

Causes and Consequences of Rear-End Collisions in Work Zones  

There are many different causes of work zone accidents, many of which involve careless driving or driver error. Most rear-end collisions in work zones involve careless driving behavior, such as: 

• Distracted driving
• Driver fatigue
• Speeding in construction zones
• Failure to follow posted work zone signs
• Tailgating or following too closely
• Unsafe lane changes
• Failure to pay attention to changes in traffic patterns
• Hitting cones or other work zone objects
• Driving while impaired

Poor weather conditions like rain, snow, and ice can also contribute to dangerous rear-end collisions in Indiana highway work zones. 

Unfortunately, the consequences of a rear-end work zone accident can be severe. The Indiana Department of Transportation notes that, nationally, four out of five people killed in work zones are drivers and passengers, not highway workers. Rear-end collisions, even at low speeds, can cause devastating injuries such as traumatic brain injuries (TBI), whiplash, and broken bones. Construction zone crashes can lead to physical injuries and financial instability.

Solutions for Reducing Rear-End Work Zone Crashes 

Work zone safety is vital to everyone on Indiana roadways. Traffic safety in highway construction zones starts with you. Here are some proactive steps you can take to avoid rear-end collisions in Indiana work zones: 

• Avoid distractions while driving, especially in areas near road construction.
• Pay attention to all posted construction signs and signals.
• Use caution around construction vehicles that may enter or exit the highway.
• Pay attention to flaggers and obey their commands.
• Watch for changing traffic patterns, narrowing lanes, and lower speed limits.
• Follow the posted work zone speed limits.
• Do not follow other drivers too closely, and maintain a safe following distance.
• Be patient and expect delays from traffic congestion.
• Use alternative routes to avoid construction zones when possible.

Remember, highway work zone configurations can change unexpectedly. Always stay alert in construction zones to help avoid work zone accidents and rear-end collisions.

Get a Free Consultation with Our Experienced Indiana Car Accident Lawyers 

Have you suffered serious injuries in a rear-end work zone accident caused by a careless driver? At Craig, Kelley & Faultless, LLC, we want to help you pursue the compensation you deserve for what you’ve suffered. Get help from an experienced Indiana personal injury lawyer today. Contact our law firm for a free consultation about how we can help you seek compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain, suffering, and other losses.