Accident Hotspots in Pittsburgh: Construction Sites and High-Traffic Zones

Pittsburgh can be a tough place to drive. With its many hills, bridges, tunnels, and ever-changing weather, it’s no surprise that accidents can happen. However, some places in the city are more dangerous than others, especially construction zones and high-traffic areas. Let’s look at where these accidents happen and what makes these areas so risky.

Why are Pittsburgh construction zones so dangerous?

If you live in Pittsburgh, you know construction is a way of life. Whether road repairs, new developments, or bridge maintenance, construction zones are everywhere. Unfortunately, these zones can also cause deadly accidents, like this tragic car accident that happened last May near the Petersen Events Center.

Government Technology reports:

New research from Carnegie Mellon University’s College of Engineering, in partnership with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), found that work zones more than 1.8 miles long could increase crash risks and that road work scheduled for night hours does not.

“So far, we cannot say what mitigation efforts can lead to the safest work zones; this will be our next step. But this provides insights on under what conditions a work zone can lead to more crashes, and when a work zone does not,” said Sean Qian, professor of civil and environmental engineering and director of the Mobility Data Analytics Center.

The research reviewed data between 2015 and 2107 from 5,006 work zones across Pennsylvania. The study included weather conditions, traffic counts, traffic speeds and other data. You can see a map of Allegheny County construction projects here.

So, what makes construction zones so dangerous? A variety of factors, on their own or in combination, can cause construction zone car accidents:

• Sudden lane changes. In construction zones, lanes often merge or shift with little notice. Drivers who aren’t paying close attention can easily miss a sign and find themselves in a bad situation.
• Narrow lanes. In many work zones, lanes are more narrow than usual, making it more difficult for drivers to maneuver, especially with larger vehicles like trucks or SUVs.
• Reduced visibility. Construction sites can be poorly lit, especially during the night or during our city’s frequent rain and fog. This can make it difficult for drivers to see workers, equipment, or changes in traffic patterns.
• Distracted drivers. Many drivers are distracted by their phones, GPS, or even by conversations with passengers. This distraction can be deadly in a construction zone, where quick decisions are needed.
• Heavy construction equipment. In many construction zones, you’ll encounter heavy machinery like bulldozers, excavators, and dump trucks. These vehicles often move slowly and may unexpectedly enter or exit the roadway.
• Speeding. Even though construction zones have reduced speed limits, unfortunately, not everyone follows them. Speeding in a work zone (which is illegal) leaves less time to react and increases the severity of a crash.

What can I do to stay safe in a Pittsburgh construction zone?

Some accidents are simply inevitable, but you can take steps to reduce your risk, especially in accident-prone areas.

• Pay close attention to road signs, especially in construction zones. These signs will give you important information about lane changes, speed limits, and potential hazards.
• Slow down. Reducing your speed gives you more time to react to unexpected situations, whether a sudden traffic stop or a pedestrian crossing the street.
• Maintain a safe following distance. Tailgating is a common cause of rear-end collisions, so leave enough space between your car and the one in front of you, especially in high-traffic or construction areas.
• Avoid distractions and keep your focus on the road. Put your phone away, set your GPS before driving, and limit conversations with your passengers.
• Be cautious in bad weather. Pittsburgh’s weather can be unpredictable, and rain, fog, or snow can reduce visibility or make roads slippery. Adjust your speed accordingly and increase your following distance in these types of conditions.

What should I do if I’m in a construction zone car accident?

Even the most cautious drivers can end up in an accident. If you’re in a crash, especially in a high-risk area like a construction zone, here’s what you should do:

• Make your safety and the safety of your passengers your top priority. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately.
• If possible, move your vehicle to the side or shoulder of the road to avoid blocking traffic and potentially causing additional accidents.
• Even if the accident seems minor, it’s important to have a police report. This document can be useful if you intend to file an insurance claim or pursue legal action.
• Take photos of the accident scene, including any damage to your vehicle, the other vehicle(s), and any relevant road conditions.
• Contact an experienced Pittsburgh car accident attorney, especially if dealing with injuries, insurance companies, and potential legal claims. At Carmody and Ging, Injury & Accident Lawyers, we can help you understand your rights and options.

If you or a loved one have been injured in a construction zone accident in Pittsburgh, you don’t have to deal with the legal process alone. At Carmody and Ging, Injury & Accident Lawyers, we’re here to help. We can guide you through your options, fight for the compensation you deserve, and help you move forward. Get in touch with us to discuss how we can protect your rights and get you on the road to recovery. Call us or fill out our contact form to schedule your free initial consultation today.