Charleston Safety: How to Avoid Accidents Around Construction Zones
While the spring, summer, and fall months bring an increase in road travelers throughout South Carolina, they also bring an increase in road construction projects. It is difficult to travel anywhere without encountering repaving, repairs, or some other type of road improvements, and while these projects promise to increase traffic flow and safety in the long run, they present delays and an increased risk of car accidents and injuries while they are occurring. Whether you travel for business or pleasure, the following is important information on construction zones to be aware of in the Charleston area, as well as tips for how to avoid accidents when navigating through these zones.
Charleston Construction Zones
With increasing numbers of visitors to the Palmetto State, massive plans are under way to provide new points of access while repairing existing bridges, roads, and highways. According to the 2015/2016 budget report from the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT), close to $500 million is budgeted for maintenance and preservation efforts throughout the state, while another $500 million is allocated for enhancements as well as capacity and operational improvements. This represents a massive amount of road construction throughout the state, and active projects listed by SCDOT for the Charleston area include bridge repairs and replacements in the following areas:
- SC 41: Repairs to the bridge over the Wando River
- SC 171: Bridge repairs going to Folly Beach, Russell Creek, and Sand Creek
- S 379: Ohear Avenue bridge replacement
In addition to these major projects, travelers can also expect delays from road construction, paving, and lighting changes throughout the area.
For a free legal consultation, call 803-222-2222
Tips for Avoiding Construction Zone Accidents
According to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), construction zone accidents resulted in over 4,000 deaths and as many as 200,000 injuries over the past five years. These accidents most commonly occur over the summer and fall months, when construction is at its peak, and rear end collisions are the most common type of work zone accident. Drivers can help to prevent accidents by using extra caution in construction zones and by following these safety tips:
- Stay alert and avoid distractions while driving.
- Pay careful attention to the road ahead, and realize the potential for delays.
- Obey signs for merging traffic.
- Follow reduced speed limits.
- Avoid tailgating and aggressive driving behaviors.
When driving through a construction zone, it is important to be prepared for the unexpected. Falling debris, work equipment, and other road hazards could appear unexpectedly in your path or in the paths of other drivers, causing them to stop, swerve, or come into your lane. Be prepared for emergency stops at any moment, and allow the extra time you need to safely get through these delays.
Contact Us for Help
If you or someone you care about has been injured in a car accident, contact Anastopoulo Law Firm right away. Our experienced South Carolina car accident attorneys can help you to hold responsible parties accountable for the damages they have caused, and assist you in getting the compensation you deserve. We have offices in Charleston and throughout South Carolina; call us today for a free review of your case.
Call or text 803-222-2222 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
