As road construction ramps up across Pennsylvania during the warmer months, so does the risk of work zone accidents. Whether you’re a driver, a construction worker, or a pedestrian, these zones can be hazardous—and when accidents happen, they raise complex legal questions.
At Pisanchyn Law Firm, our experienced road construction injury lawyers help victims in Scranton, Harrisburg, Pittsburgh, and across PA understand their rights and fight for the compensation they deserve.
🚧 Why Work Zones Are So Dangerous
PennDOT reports that over 1,600 work zone crashes occur annually in Pennsylvania, often caused by:
Distracted or speeding drivers
Poorly marked construction zones
Confusing detours or signage
Unsafe conditions created by contractors
Inadequate barriers between workers and traffic
Who Can Be Held Liable in a Pennsylvania Work Zone Accident?
Determining fault in a work zone crash depends on how the accident happened and who created the hazardous conditions. Liability may fall on:
1. Negligent Drivers
Speeding or texting drivers often cause rear-end collisions or swerve into closed lanes
These cases are treated as standard motor vehicle injury claims
2. Construction Contractors or Subcontractors
Failing to provide proper signage, lighting, or barriers
Leaving equipment or debris in active traffic lanes
These cases may involve third-party negligence lawsuits
3. Municipalities or Government Agencies
If poor design or maintenance of the work zone contributed to the accident
These claims are more complex and may involve notice requirements or sovereign immunity exceptions
4. Your Employer (if You’re a Worker)
If you’re a construction worker injured in a work zone, your injuries may be covered under Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation
However, you may still be able to file a third-party claim if someone else’s negligence contributed (e.g., a reckless driver or negligent subcontractor)
Real-World Examples
A driver crashes into a worker because a contractor failed to place warning signs — contractor may be liable
A worker is hit by a passing vehicle while flagging without proper barriers — both the driver and contractor could share liability
A pedestrian trips over uneven pavement left unmarked by road crews — the municipality or contractor may be at fault
Time Limits for Filing a Claim
Pennsylvania law generally gives you 2 years to file a personal injury lawsuit. If your case involves a government entity, you may have only 6 months to file a notice of intent—so it’s crucial to act quickly.
How a Work Zone Accident Attorney Can Help
The aftermath of a construction zone accident can be overwhelming. A skilled work zone accident attorney in PA can help by:
Investigating liability (including reviewing PennDOT standards and construction contracts)
Filing workers’ compensation if you were injured on the job
Identifying all responsible parties (drivers, contractors, agencies)
Negotiating fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering
Injured in a Pennsylvania Work Zone? Contact Pisanchyn Law Firm Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a road construction zone in Scranton, Harrisburg, Pittsburgh, or anywhere in Pennsylvania, the legal team at Pisanchyn Law Firm is here to help. Let us investigate your case, identify all liable parties, and help you get the compensation you deserve.
