Forensic Engineering - Highway Construction Work Zone Accidents

Abstract

This Paper Will Discuss Highway Construction Work Zone Accidents, And How Not Adhering To Generally Accepted Engineering Principles And Practices In The Field Contributes To Their Occurrence. Highway Construction Work Zone Accidents Have Increased Over The Years Due To Higher Speeds On Our Highways And The Lack Of Adequate Advance Warning Signs Before The Start Of The Construction Zone. Higher Speeds Require Increased Distances In The Placement Of Advance Warning Signs To Inform Motorists That They Are Entering A Construction Work Zone Area. Problems Occur Where Lanes Merge And Vehicles Have To Move Into An Adjacent Lane. This Causes Traffic To Suddenly Slow Down, Or Even Stop, Thereby Causing Traffic To Back Up Even Before The Advance Warning Signs. This Situation Can Lead To Rear End Collisions.