If you’ve been injured in a construction zone crash, you don’t have to navigate the legal process alone. At Poynter & Bucheri, our experienced Indianapolis car accident attorneys have a proven track record of helping victims across Indiana secure the compensation they deserve.
Our law firm understands the challenges of work zone accident cases, from identifying all liable parties to gathering critical evidence before it disappears. Our team will guide you through every step, handle negotiations with the insurance companies, and fight for your rights in court if needed.
Your recovery should be your top priority. Let us handle the legal side. Call 800-265-9881 or schedule today for a free case review and learn how our Indiana car accident lawyers can help you move forward.
Why the Increase in Indiana’s Work Zones
Road construction zones are becoming a more frequent sight across Indiana, and not just in major cities. From interstate highways to rural routes, there has been a noticeable increase in orange cones and lane closures.
Several factors are driving this increase. Understanding them can help you stay safe and know when to reach out to a knowledgeable car accident lawyer if a car accident occurs.
Weather
Indiana’s climate takes a heavy toll on road surfaces. Winter lows often plummet below zero, triggering repeated freeze‑thaw cycles that crack asphalt and concrete.
In the spring, rainfall often reaches 4 inches or more per month, which can easily erode road shoulders and weaken foundations. Hot, humid summers send daily highs into the 90s, causing pavement to expand, buckle, and degrade more quickly.
These climate extremes (cold, heat, and heavy rain) accelerate roadway deterioration, leading to more frequent and expensive repairs.
Age of Roads
Much of Indiana’s road network was built decades ago. Asphalt roads typically last about 15–20 years, while concrete surfaces may hold up for 20–40 years. However, Indiana’s harsh winters and heavy traffic often shorten these lifespans.
Once roads reach or exceed their intended lifespan, they often need major repairs or complete reconstruction. Even with regular upkeep, years of heavy traffic take their toll, leading to more large-scale work zones and, unfortunately, a higher risk of car accidents that may require the help of an Indianapolis car accident lawyer.
Population Growth
Indiana’s population, especially in urban and suburban areas like Indianapolis, Fishers, and Carmel, has been rising steadily.
In 2024, Indiana added 44,144 residents, reaching 6.92 million—the state’s largest annual gain since 2008. From April 2020 to July 2024, the Indianapolis metro added over 85,000 residents and has been growing at roughly twice the national average.
More people mean more vehicles on the road, accelerating wear and tear and prompting infrastructure upgrades that require large-scale work zones.
Why Work Zone Accidents Are Dangerous
Work zones interrupt the normal flow of traffic, with reduced speed limits, shifting lanes, and the constant presence of workers and heavy equipment. A single mistake can lead to serious bodily injuries or even fatal car accidents.
These car crashes often turn into complex legal cases, involving personal injury lawsuits, tough negotiations with insurance companies, and the need for guidance from an experienced Indianapolis car accident lawyer.
Several factors make construction zones particularly hazardous for drivers:
- Narrower lanes: Reduced lane width makes it harder for vehicles to pass safely, leaving little room for error.
- Sudden stops: Frequent when traffic merges or slows unexpectedly, increasing the risk of rear-end collisions.
- Construction vehicles and equipment: May enter or exit the roadway without warning, surprising nearby drivers.
- Distracted or impatient drivers: Can ignore posted speed limits or overlook workers ahead.
- Confusing signage: Poorly marked detours or unclear signs can lead to abrupt lane changes and collisions.
Work Zone Legal Requirements
Indiana law, along with federal safety standards, requires construction zones to be properly designed, clearly marked, and well-maintained. These rules are in place to protect drivers and workers by reducing confusion, controlling traffic flow, and preventing collisions.
When road crews or contractors fail to meet these standards and a construction zone car accident occurs, victims may have the right to file an Indiana car accident claim. If an insurance company refuses to pay for your bodily injury after a car crash, an experienced car accident lawyer can step in to protect your rights.
Here are several key elements that must be present in any properly maintained work zone:
Signage
Work zones must have clear, visible signage that warns drivers about upcoming construction, lane shifts, reduced speed limits, and detours.
Signs should be placed at a proper distance before the work zone to give motorists enough time to adjust. The Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) sets national standards that Indiana road crews are required to follow.
Barriers
Concrete barriers, cones, and other physical dividers help separate traffic from active work areas. These barriers must be placed correctly to protect workers and prevent vehicles from veering into construction zones.
Poorly placed or missing barriers increase the risk of head-on collisions or vehicle intrusions.
Off-Peak Hours
Major construction work should be scheduled during off-peak traffic hours to minimize congestion and reduce the risk of crashes. This may include night work or weekend hours for high-traffic roadways.
Failure to plan around peak travel times can create unnecessary hazards.
Flaggers (Training and Clothing)
Flaggers are the workers who direct traffic through construction zones. They must be properly trained in safe signaling procedures and are also required to wear high-visibility clothing, such as reflective vests, so drivers can easily see them in all lighting conditions.
Improper training or inadequate visibility gear can result in dangerous misunderstandings between drivers and workers.
Causes of Work Zone Car Accidents
While some construction zone crashes happen due to unavoidable hazards, most are the result of driver negligence or preventable safety failures.
Understanding the leading causes can help determine who may be liable after an accident, and when it may be time to speak with an auto accident attorney about your personal injury case.
Speeding
Even small speed increases can have serious consequences in a work zone. Reduced speed limits are meant to give drivers enough time to react to lane shifts, obstacles, or workers ahead.
Speeding is especially dangerous for large vehicles like semi-trucks, which require more distance to slow or stop. When truck drivers fail to adjust their speed or driving behavior, the added weight and longer stopping distance can lead to catastrophic crashes. In these cases, the at-fault driver may be liable for bodily injury and other damages in an Indiana car accident claim.
Distracted Driving
Cell phone use, adjusting navigation systems, eating, or looking at the construction activity instead of the road are all common distractions. In work zones, taking your eyes off the road for even a few seconds can lead to a rear-end collision or sideswipe.
Distracted driving raises the risk of serious injury and fatal car accidents. It may also require help from an experienced car accident lawyer to gather the evidence needed for the driver’s insurance company and present a strong case in court.
Reckless Driving
Aggressive behaviors such as tailgating, weaving between lanes, or refusing to merge when instructed can escalate quickly in a confined work zone.
These actions not only endanger other drivers but also put road workers at significant risk. An auto accident attorney can help hold the at-fault driver accountable for the resulting car crash and injuries.
Lack of Signage
When work zones lack adequate signs, drivers can be caught off guard by lane closures, shifts, or reduced speeds. Missing or unclear signage can cause confusion, sudden braking, and chain-reaction crashes.
If your car accident was caused by poor signage, the construction company or municipality may be liable for the resulting severe injuries. Documenting the accident scene after a crash helps to show that inadequate signage played a role.
What To Do After a Work Zone Car Accident
The moments after a work zone car crash can be chaotic, but following the right steps is crucial under Indiana personal injury law to protect your health and strengthen your case.
These steps are crucial in the legal process when determining liability, dealing with insurance companies, and working with an Indianapolis car accident lawyer to pursue insurance claims or a personal injury lawsuit.
Move to a Safe Location
If your vehicle is drivable, carefully pull over to a safe spot away from active lanes and construction equipment. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers. This helps prevent further collisions and allows you to gather yourself before taking the next steps.
Call 911
Report the accident to law enforcement immediately. In Indiana, an accident report from the police is critical for documenting the crash and can play a key role in establishing fault. Request medical assistance for anyone who is injured, as prompt care will also create important medical records for your case.
Exchange Information
Gather contact details, driver’s license numbers, and insurance information from all drivers involved. If the crash involved construction vehicles or workers, collect the company name and any identifying details. This information is essential for your car accident attorney when pursuing an Indiana car accident claim.
Document the Scene
Take photos or videos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, road conditions, work zone signage (or lack thereof), and any visible injuries. Clear documentation helps preserve evidence before conditions change or repairs are made.
Get Witness Statements
If bystanders, other drivers, or construction workers saw the crash, ask for their names and contact information before they leave. Their testimony can help clarify what happened and support your personal injury case against the at-fault driver.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine, visit a doctor as soon as possible. Some injuries, like concussions or soft tissue damage, may not appear immediately. Keeping thorough medical records will connect your injuries to the accident and support your insurance claims.
Contact an Experienced Attorney
Work zone accident cases often involve multiple parties, including drivers, contractors, and government agencies. An Indianapolis personal injury lawyer can help you gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and fight for fair compensation. At Poynter & Bucheri, we offer a free consultation so you can understand your rights before making any decisions.
Injuries You May Sustain in a Work Zone Car Accident
A construction zone car accident can occur in areas where traffic is still moving at relatively high speeds, particularly on highways and interstates, and often involves hazards.
For a construction zone car accident victim, these factors can lead to catastrophic injuries that are devastating. Beyond the physical harm, victims often face emotional distress, steep medical bills, and uncertainty when dealing with insurance adjusters. An experienced Indianapolis car accident lawyer from the law firm of Poynter & Bucheri can help you pursue the financial compensation you need for your recovery and long-term care.
The following are some of the most common and severe injuries sustained in construction zone car accidents:
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
A sudden jolt or blow to the head during a collision can cause a traumatic brain injury, ranging from a mild concussion to permanent cognitive impairment. TBIs may require long-term rehabilitation and can affect memory, speech, and motor skills. A knowledgeable Indiana car accident lawyer can help document these complex injuries and fight for the full value of your claim.
Broken Bones
The force of impact in a construction zone accident can easily break or fracture bones in the arms, legs, ribs, or pelvis. These injuries are painful, limit mobility, and often require surgery, physical therapy, and extended recovery. In an Indianapolis car accident case, proving the extent of these injuries is critical to securing fair compensation.
Burns
If a crash sparks a vehicle fire or involves hazardous construction materials, victims may suffer burns. These injuries can cause severe pain, permanent scarring, a high risk of infection, and the need for reconstructive surgery. Filing a personal injury claim with Poynter & Bucheri ensures these long-term effects are factored into your settlement or verdict.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Damage to the spinal cord can result in partial or complete paralysis, chronic pain, and loss of sensation. Often permanent, these injuries require extensive rehabilitation, home modifications, and lifelong medical care. Victims can seek damages for medical expenses, not just for immediate treatment, but for the lifetime costs associated with their injury.
Who May Be Liable in a Work Zone Car Accident
Determining fault in a construction zone crash can be far more complex than in a typical roadway accident. Multiple parties may share responsibility, and each will have its own legal team and insurance company working to minimize payouts. An experienced Indiana personal injury lawyer can help with determining liability, gathering evidence, and pursuing damages for bodily injury and other losses.
For car accident victims, identifying all at-fault parties is vital to recovering the full value of their claim. At-fault parties may include:
Drivers
Other motorists might be at fault if they were speeding, driving distracted, tailgating, or ignoring work zone traffic signs. Pursuing claims against other drivers’ insurance companies is a common step in a personal injury case involving a work zone collision.
Construction Companies
The company managing the work site is responsible for ensuring that the construction zone meets all state and federal safety standards. This includes proper signage, barriers, lighting, and the use of trained flaggers.
If these measures are missing or inadequate, the company may be liable. Building a strong case often involves reviewing the accident report, filing insurance claims, and working closely with an experienced car accident attorney to prove negligence.
Government Entities
State and local governments oversee many public road construction projects and are responsible for safe work zone planning and maintenance. If a dangerous condition, such as poor lane markings or a lack of proper detours, causes a crash, the agency could be held accountable.
Unlike driver’s insurance company, government bodies have strict deadlines and unique filing requirements, making it crucial to contact an Indianapolis car accident lawyer quickly.
Independent Contractors
Subcontractors often handle specific aspects of a construction zone, such as traffic control, paving, or operating heavy machinery. If a subcontractor’s negligence leads to a collision, they may be added as a defendant in the claim.
These cases often require negotiating with multiple insurance companies and having a skilled accident attorney who can coordinate the investigation and legal strategy.
Economic Damages in a Work Zone Car Accident Case
Economic damages cover the tangible, financial losses you suffer because of an accident. Bills, receipts, employment records, and expert testimony support these damages. In severe construction zone accident cases, the amounts can be significant.
An experienced Indianapolis car accident attorney from a trusted law firm can help you file a personal injury claim to ensure these losses are fully documented and compensated.
The most common types of economic damages in a construction zone accident case include:
Medical Expenses (Including Future Expenses)
This includes the cost of emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, prescription medications, and medical equipment. For many accident victims, these become costly medical bills that add financial strain to the recovery process.
If your bodily injuries cause ongoing pain or need long-term care, you can also seek compensation for future medical expenses.
Property Damage
Most work zone crashes involve significant vehicle damage, especially when collisions occur near concrete barriers, construction equipment, or other fixed hazards.
Economic damages can include the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle, as well as any personal property damaged in the crash. In a car accident case, Indiana car accident lawyers can work with experts to assess the true replacement value of your losses.
Lost Wages / Loss of Future Earnings
If your injuries prevent you from returning to work, you may recover the income you’ve lost during your recovery period. In cases involving permanent disability or reduced earning capacity, you can also claim damages for the wages, bonuses, and benefits you would have earned in the future.
A skilled car accident lawyer can build a strong car accident claim that includes these losses and proves the long-term financial impact of your injuries. In addition to these economic damages, you may also be entitled to non-economic damages such as pain and suffering, anxiety, and emotional distress, which address the impact the accident has had on your daily life and relationships.
Work Zone Safety Tips Drivers Should Follow
You can’t control how other drivers behave or how a construction site is set up, but you can take precautions to lower your risk of a crash.
These safety tips can help you avoid construction zone car accident injuries, protect road workers, and reduce the chances you’ll need help from car accident attorneys to file a personal injury claim or negotiate with insurance adjusters after a serious accident.
Slow Down
Always obey posted work zone speed limits. Lower speeds give you more time to react to lane shifts, sudden stops, or unexpected hazards. Speeding through a construction zone greatly increases the risk of a motor vehicle accident.
Stay Alert
Avoid distractions like texting, adjusting the radio, or watching construction activity while driving. Keeping both hands on the wheel and your eyes forward. Staying alert can prevent collisions that might otherwise require extensive medical treatment and complex insurance negotiations.
Maintain a Safe Following Distance
Increase the space between your car and the one in front of you. This gives you more time to brake if traffic slows suddenly and helps prevent chain-reaction crashes in narrow lanes. A safe following distance can protect you from serious construction zone car accident injuries.
Merge Early
When lanes are closing, merge well before the point of closure to avoid last-second lane changes that can cause motor vehicle accidents. Early merging reduces congestion and makes traffic flow more predictable for everyone in the work zone.
Follow Flaggers’ Instructions
Pay close attention to flaggers and temporary traffic cues, even if they differ from permanent signs or signals. Flaggers are trained to manage traffic flow safely through construction zones, and ignoring them can cause preventable crashes.
Be Patient
Delays in work zones can be frustrating, but aggressive driving puts everyone at risk. Staying calm and patient helps protect road crews, reduces stress, and keeps you from becoming involved in a car accident case.
Penalties for Speeding in Work Zones
Indiana takes work zone safety seriously, and speeding through an active construction area can result in more than just a traffic ticket. These penalties are designed to deter dangerous driving, protect road crews, and reduce the risk of serious injuries for drivers and passengers.
If you are cited for speeding and it results in a crash, the matter can quickly escalate into a car accident claim that requires legal representation from an Indianapolis car accident lawyer.
Increased Fines
Indiana’s work‑zone law sets enhanced penalties—$300 for a first speeding citation, $500 for a second, and $1,000 for a third within three years. Reckless/aggressive driving can bring fines up to $5,000, and injuring or killing a highway worker can lead to up to $10,000 in fines and up to six years in jail.
These fines are meant to discourage reckless driving and reduce the need for future insurance claims related to work zone accidents.
License Points
Speeding in a work zone adds points to your driving record, which can increase your insurance premiums and, if too many points accumulate, result in license suspension. For some drivers, losing a license can also impact employment, especially if driving is part of their job.
Possible Jail Time
In severe cases, such as reckless speeding, repeat offenses, or causing bodily harm, drivers may face misdemeanor charges and possible jail sentences. If an accident occurs, authorities may conduct a thorough investigation to determine whether driver negligence was the cause, which can significantly impact the outcome of both criminal proceedings and civil personal injury claims.
Civil Liability
If speeding leads to a crash, you may be held financially responsible for the victims’ medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and other losses. This civil liability is separate from any criminal penalties and often requires negotiating with insurance companies to settle. In many cases, working with a personal injury attorney is essential to ensure fair compensation, especially when insurers try to undervalue or deny valid claims.
In Indiana, law enforcement frequently uses speed cameras, radar units, and increased patrols in active work zones to identify speeding drivers. The best way to avoid these penalties is to slow down, follow posted limits, and approach every work zone with caution.
Poynter & Bucheri: Ready To Fight for You
A work zone crash can change everything in seconds, leaving you with serious injuries, overwhelming medical bills, and an uncertain future. You need a legal team that will fight for your rights and pursue the maximum compensation in your car accident case.
At the law firm of Poynter & Bucheri, our seasoned Indianapolis car accident attorneys know the unique challenges of construction zone cases. We dig deep, conducting thorough investigations, gathering critical evidence, and taking on even the toughest insurance companies to protect your interests. Whether through a fair settlement or in court, we fight to win you the best possible outcome.
We offer a free consultation so you can understand your legal options without risk. Call 800-265-9881 or schedule today. Don’t wait. The sooner our law firm gets started, the stronger your case will be.