Construction zones are a common sight on the roads of Biloxi, Mississippi, as the city continues to grow and improve its infrastructure. Unfortunately, these areas often become hotspots for car accidents due to shifting traffic patterns, reduced lanes, and sudden stops. If you’ve been involved in a car accident in a construction zone, understanding your legal options is critical. Kellum Law Firm, P.C., with offices in Jackson and Port Gibson, is here to help accident victims throughout Mississippi navigate the complexities of construction zone accident claims and seek fair compensation for their injuries.

The Dangers of Construction Zones

Construction zones create unique hazards for drivers, often resulting in increased risks for accidents. These dangers can be exacerbated by several factors, such as:

• Narrowed Lanes and Shifting Traffic Patterns: Construction often requires reducing the width of lanes or diverting traffic in unfamiliar ways, which can confuse drivers and increase the chances of collisions.
• Reduced Speeds: While reduced speed limits are enforced in construction zones, not all drivers adhere to these restrictions, leading to rear-end collisions and other types of accidents.
• Heavy Equipment and Workers: Construction zones are filled with heavy machinery and workers, which can obstruct the flow of traffic or cause sudden stops that drivers may not be prepared for.
• Inadequate Signage: When construction zones are not properly marked or signage is missing, drivers may not have enough warning to adjust to the new traffic patterns, increasing the risk of accidents.

The combination of these factors creates a perfect storm for accidents, with serious injuries often resulting due to the confined space and unpredictable nature of construction zones.

Common Injuries in Construction Zone Accidents

Accidents in construction zones can result in a variety of injuries, ranging from minor to life-threatening. Some of the most common injuries include:

• Whiplash and Neck Injuries: Sudden stops or rear-end collisions are frequent in construction zones and can cause significant neck injuries.
• Head and Brain Injuries: The impact from an accident can result in concussions, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), or other serious head injuries.
• Broken Bones and Fractures: The force of a collision can cause broken bones or fractures, especially in confined areas like construction zones.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Severe impacts can lead to spinal cord damage, potentially resulting in paralysis or long-term disability.

If you have sustained any of these injuries, seeking immediate medical attention is essential, both for your health and to document the extent of your injuries for any potential legal claims.

Who is Liable in a Construction Zone Accident?

Determining liability in a construction zone accident can be complex due to the number of parties involved. Liability may fall on several different entities, depending on the circumstances of the accident. Potential liable parties include:

• Other Drivers: In many cases, the negligent actions of another driver may have caused the accident. Speeding, tailgating, or failing to adjust to construction zone conditions are common factors.
• Construction Companies: If the construction zone was not properly marked or maintained, the company responsible for the site may be held liable for accidents that occur as a result of their negligence.
• Government Entities: In some cases, government agencies responsible for overseeing road construction may be held liable if the construction zone was not designed or maintained to safety standards.

The attorneys at Kellum Law Firm, P.C., are experienced in investigating construction zone accidents to determine who is responsible for the injuries you’ve sustained. We conduct thorough investigations, gathering evidence such as accident reports, witness statements, and expert testimony to build a strong case on your behalf.

Filing a Construction Zone Accident Claim in Mississippi

When filing a claim for a construction zone accident in Mississippi, there are several important steps to take:

1. Seek Medical Attention: Your health and well-being should be your top priority. After an accident, it’s essential to seek medical care immediately, even if you believe your injuries are minor. Some injuries may not show symptoms right away, and having documentation of your medical condition is critical for your claim.
2. Report the Accident: Contact law enforcement and file an accident report. This documentation will be vital in building your case and proving the circumstances of the accident.
3. Gather Evidence: If possible, collect evidence at the scene, including photos of the construction zone, the vehicles involved, and any visible injuries. If there were witnesses, obtain their contact information.
4. Consult an Attorney: Before speaking with insurance adjusters or accepting any settlements, consult with an experienced personal injury attorney. At Kellum Law Firm, P.C., we can help you understand your rights, assess your case, and negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you receive fair compensation.
5. Determine Liability: Your attorney will work to determine who is liable for your accident and pursue a claim against the appropriate parties.

Compensation for Construction Zone Accident Victims

Victims of construction zone accidents in Biloxi, MS, may be entitled to several forms of compensation, including:

• Medical Expenses: Compensation for hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, and any ongoing medical treatments related to the injuries sustained in the accident.
• Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for lost income, both past and future.
• Pain and Suffering: You may be compensated for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident and your resulting injuries.
• Property Damage: If your vehicle or personal property was damaged in the accident, you may be compensated for repair or replacement costs.
• Punitive Damages: In cases of extreme negligence or recklessness, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the responsible party and prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.

Why Choose Kellum Law Firm, P.C.?

Construction zone accidents present unique challenges, from determining liability to navigating the complexities of insurance claims. Kellum Law Firm, P.C. has extensive experience handling construction zone accident claims and providing legal support to victims throughout Mississippi. Our attorneys are committed to fighting for the compensation our clients deserve and ensuring that negligent parties are held accountable.

With offices in Jackson and Port Gibson, we serve clients across Mississippi who have been injured due to the negligence of others. If you or a loved one has been injured in a construction zone car accident in Biloxi, contact Kellum Law Firm, P.C. today for a free consultation. We can be reached at our Jackson office at (601) 969-2709 or our Port Gibson office at (601) 590-9000. Let us help you navigate the legal process and seek the compensation you deserve.