Construction Zone Auto Accident in Redding
On Wednesday, April 28, 2021, two people were injured in an automobile collision on Bechelli Lane in Redding, California. The crash involved two Ford trucks – an F150 and an F450. Initial reports say the F150 crashed into the rear of the slower-moving F450.
The accident took place in a construction zone on the 4100 block of Bechelli Lane, and the Ford F450 was a construction vehicle.
The crash occurred in the morning, and first responders arrived at the scene a little after 6:00 a.m. to evaluate and treat any injuries. The Ford F450 driver and a passenger sustained injuries, although they were not reported to be severe.
Construction Zone Accidents
It is not always possible to shut down a road or highway when roadwork has to be done. Thus, construction zones are often designated to partially obstruct or direct traffic through the work zone. Construction zones are frequently identified by flashing signs, barriers, and orange cones. Sometimes, these designations confuse motorists, causing disorientation and mistakes.
Of course, accidents can happen in a construction zone, just like anywhere else. There were more than 67,000 car accidents within work zones in 2013, and many of those resulted in injuries. In the year 2017, nearly 800 people lost their lives in accidents within construction zones.
Construction Zones – Be Aware
There are a number of scenarios that can lead to accidents within work zones:
- Signs or barriers are struck or are knocked over, leading to a misdirection of motorists.
- A confused motorist does not follow signs or notice barriers.
- Detours also often confuse drivers.
- When a lane is closed, some drivers may not react soon enough, or there may be issues with merging.
- Work vehicles are often big and heavy, with somewhat limited visibility including, large blind spots.
Watch the YouTube video. The clip below, uploaded by Caltrans, reminds motorists to use caution in work zones.
Steps to Take Following a Construction Zone Accident
Things to do after an accident within a construction zone are the same things you should do following any other type of car accident, including:
- If you are physically able, take pictures of everything – all involved vehicles, the accident scene including road debris and nearby street signs, and any visible injuries (your own).
- If a CHP officer comes to the scene, provide him or her with a thorough accounting of the events that led up to the incident.
- If you speak with others involved in the accident, keep the conversations fact-based. Inquire about how they are feeling but do not offer an apology or admit fault. If the police are not coming to the scene, exchange insurance information.
- If there were any witnesses to the crash who were not in one of the involved vehicles, ask them for their contact information if you need a statement later.
- If you sustained injuries, even if they seem relatively minor at the scene, seek medical evaluation and treatment. Often, because of the adrenaline flowing following a traumatic event, you may not be aware of any symptoms until hours later or the following morning.
Redding Personal Injury Lawyer
Hello – I’m Ed Smith, a personal injury attorney in Redding, California. For close to four decades, I have been a legal advocate for injured Northern Californians. If you or someone you love has suffered injuries as a result of another motorist’s negligence, our skilled and experienced injury lawyers can assist with your claim for damages. For our free and friendly legal advice, reach out to us locally at (530) 392-9400, or from outside the area, please use our toll-free number: (800) 404-5400.
If you are interested in some of our past case results, have a look at our settlements and verdicts page.
Photo Attribution: https://pixabay.com/photos/safety-cone-road-traffic-3442464/
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