Construction work can be dangerous, especially if the job includes work on the side of the road. Moving vehicles, low visibility, and distracted drivers can all add up to serious safety risks for the men and women who work in any type of roadside construction or work zone.
Despite the risk of working in this type of job, every person employed in a construction-related job has the right to a reasonably safe work environment. With the implementation of safety measures and adequate training, it is possible to make any roadside work zone a safety zone, thereby reducing the number of accidents and preventable injuries.
Preventing unnecessary accidents in work zones
Naturally, vehicles and inattentive drivers are some of the most significant threats to the well-being of the people who work in roadside work zones. While traffic control and other measures can decrease the chances of an accident, there are still plenty of risks. Some of the ways that managers and employers can make roadwork safer by implementing the following measures:
- Approved traffic control devices
- Concrete barriers
- Crash barricades
- Flaggers wearing high-visibility clothing
- Plenty of lighting
- Training on signaling and safety
- Driver training for workers using moving equipment
Even with all of the safety measures possible and plenty of training, accidents can happen and drivers passing by may not consider how their actions affect the people at work beside the road. If you were hurt while doing your job in a work zone, you have the right to a full recovery from your injuries and losses, regardless of the circumstances of your accident.
What benefits can I get after a work zone accident?
Workers’ compensation benefits are available to any worker who suffers an injury while doing his or her job. The benefits available through this type of insurance coverage include medical care, lost wages and other needs, such as rehabilitation or vocational retraining. New York employers are required to have this type of insurance coverage for the protection and benefit of every employee.
It can be difficult to secure rightful benefits after a work zone accident, even if you have completed the claim and done everything you are supposed to do. You may benefit from the guidance of an attorney who is familiar with the workers’ compensation claims process and who knows how to both protect your rights and fight for your full recovery.