Unfortunately, Iowa has seen 377 roadway fatalities in 2016 as the year quickly comes to a close. This marks a 26 percent increase in traffic fatalities for the same period last year.
Of the fatalities, 13 deaths in Iowa highway work zones makes this year the second most deadly in work zone crashes since records were established. In 1999, there were 17 work zone fatalities and last year there were 5.
Traffic safety experts believe that a combination of factors contributed to the increase in the overall traffic fatalities this year including more motorists on the roadway, distracted driving, intoxication and speeding.
The increase in work zone accidents, specifically, may very well correlate to the millions of dollars in road construction completed across the state 2016. As many as 500 statewide work zones were operational between March and November according to DOT officials, putting motorists and workers at increased risk.
Sometimes it is the failure of a motorist to heed warnings in a construction zone. However, sometimes accidents occur because precautions were not taken or procedures were not followed by the construction company, safety inspectors or government agencies to ensure the safety of motorists and construction workers.
If you or a family member has been injured in an Iowa highway construction work zone accident or another motor vehicle accident contact the personal injury Law Offices of Marc Humphrey. Our legal team represents Des Moines car and truck accident victims and their families in personal injury and wrongful death claims. Call us today for help at 515-331-3510 or email us directly through this website.
