Highway construction zones are extremely hazardous, and despite safety precautions, the highway workers who maintain and repair our roads are at risk every day when they set out to do their jobs.
Besides using potentially dangerous power tools and heavy equipment, they work alongside highway traffic, which in the case of an accident can mean catastrophic injuries that require costly hospitalization and extensive rehabilitation. In severe cases, some workers do not survive their injuries.
Some of the many hazards faced by highway workers include:
Common Injuries Suffered by Highway Workers include:
Pennsylvania has many regulations to protect highway workers in work zones. All work zones must be designated as such, and be equipped with signs and lights that flash when the work area is in use and workers are present. If the work zone is on a Pennsylvania interstate, the entrance to the work zone must be equipped with a speed-monitoring sign that flashes a driver’s speed as they approach.
Drivers are required to use headlights when entering a work zone. They may have their license revoked for fifteen days if they are caught driving more than 11 miles per hour over the posted speed limit. Although fines are doubled for many traffic violations, unfortunately, this does not deter many people from failing to obey posted speed limits and yield signs. Highway workers suffer the consequences in the form of serious injuries and fatalities.
Depending on the type of injuries and the circumstances of the work accident, there may be several options available to highway workers for compensation for injuries. The Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Act requires all employers to carry Workers’ Compensation insurance, which may provide an injured employee with some or all of the following benefits:
If you were injured in a work accident that was due to negligence on the part of someone other than your employers, such as another company responsible for work being done in the work zone, the manufacturer of defective equipment, or a negligent automobile driver – you may be able to file a third-party claim. This would entitle you to additional damages, such as mental and physical suffering, loss of companionship in the case of wrongful death, and punitive damages.
Every case is unique. In order to receive the maximum compensation available for the circumstances of your situation, it is best to consult with an experienced Philadelphia Workers’ Compensation lawyer who can explain all your legal options.
Highway workers have a hazardous workplace and can sustain serious injuries on the job. If you or someone you love has suffered a work injury, talk to a Philadelphia Workers’ Compensation lawyer of Gross & Kenny, LLP today. Our practice is dedicated exclusively to injured workers and we will fight to get you the maximum allowable compensation for your case. Call 267-589-0090 today or contact us online to schedule your free initial consultation in our Philadelphia, Pennsylvania office.