The Department of Transportation (DOT) is constantly working to make our roads a smoother and safer infrastructure. With the millions of vehicles driving on Georgia roads every day, it’s no surprise that construction work is constantly occurring. Because of this, the DOT and construction companies must take appropriate actions to keep drivers safe. Consider the following issues that fall within the DOT’s responsibility:

Dangerous Objects Adjacent to Travel Lanes

To prevent cars from hitting trees or construction-related materials, these objects should be a safe distance away from a lane of travel. Many times, serious or deadly wrecks occur because a car hit an object adjacent to a travel lane. If the object adjacent to the travel lane was not there, the car would be able to get back on the road or stop without anyone getting hurt. There are many rules that the DOT and cities and counties must follow to make sure objects, such as trees or vehicles, are not located too close to travel lanes.

Water Hazard Problems

Roads, streets, and driveways should be designed and maintained so water runs off the roadway. If roads are not designed and maintained correctly, the water will run onto the roadway and settle on the roads. Water running onto the roadway or standing on the roadway is very unsafe. This faulty design can result in cars and trucks hydroplaning. The DOT and construction companies are required to prevent such water hazard problems.

Dangerous Shoulders

Paved and grass shoulders of roadways should be smooth, not too steep or narrow, and/or protected by safely-designed guardrails. The DOT and the cities and counties have a responsibility to make sure the shoulder of the roadway is safe and meets standards.

Vehicles Exiting the Construction Zone

When the DOT and construction companies are reworking a road, you will likely see dump trucks, tractor-trailers, bulldozers, cranes, trucks, and other vehicles entering and exiting the construction zone. The DOT and construction companies must provide a way for these heavy vehicles to accelerate, exit the construction zone, and merge into existing traffic. The drivers of these vehicles must also avoid entering the roadway at slow, unsafe speeds. Unfortunately, many wrecks in construction zones occur because the DOT and construction companies do not adhere to these requirements.

If you’re in any sort of accident in a construction zone area, it would be wise to reach out to Clark & Smith to see if you have a potential claim. Contact us today.