If you were injured in a car accident in a construction zone—maybe on I-75, US 301, or one of the many road projects around Bradenton—you’re likely asking: Who’s at fault? Can I recover damages? What do I do now?
At Goldman Babboni Fernandez Murphy & Walsh, we’ve helped people across Manatee County after serious crashes in road construction areas. These accidents are often more complicated than normal wrecks—and the insurance companies know it. You may be dealing not just with another driver, but also with road contractors or even government agencies like FDOT. Getting the facts—and the legal support—quickly can make a big difference.
Below, we break down what to do, who may be liable, and how to build a strong case.
- Why crashes happen so often in work zones
- What Florida laws apply
- Who may be legally responsible
- What steps to take after a construction zone accident
- And how our law firm can help protect your rights and fight for full compensation
If this accident just happened to you or someone you love, don’t wait. The timeline to file a claim in Florida has recently changed—and construction zone claims are more complex than most. Keep reading to understand your options, or contact us now for a free consultation.
From Sudden Stop Pileups to Equipment Hazards, a Lawyer Can Help You Recover
If you were injured in a crash near a work zone in Bradenton, you’re not alone—and you’re not imagining how chaotic and dangerous these areas can be. Our local roads are filled with active construction projects, from the I-75 interchanges at SR 70 and SR 64 to long-term upgrades along US 301 and Manatee Avenue.
Here are just a few of the construction-related accident scenarios we see again and again:
- Sudden Stop Rear-End Collisions
Traffic often comes to a standstill without warning near lane closures. One distracted driver can trigger a chain-reaction crash. - Drivers Ignoring Flaggers or Signals
When drivers fail to obey construction workers directing traffic, it creates confusion—and danger—for everyone else on the road. - Heavy Equipment Entering Traffic
Trucks, excavators, and construction vehicles frequently move in and out of live lanes, sometimes without warning or proper signage. - Last-Second Merging and Aggressive Driving
Some drivers wait until the very end to merge out of a closed lane, cutting others off or weaving abruptly—often causing side-swipes and forced off-road crashes. - Speeding Through the Zone
Despite posted limits, many drivers barrel through construction areas without slowing down, putting everyone at risk—especially when visibility or lane markings are poor. - Debris, Uneven Surfaces, or Poor Lighting
Hazards like scattered cones, gravel, or unlit detours can lead to loss of control—especially at night or during bad weather.
We’ve represented many clients who were hit in exactly these types of scenarios. And while every case is different, the pattern is clear: construction zones can be confusing, dangerous, and unpredictable—even when you’re doing everything right.
Florida Laws That Impact Construction Zone Accident Claims
If your crash happened in a construction zone, your case falls under special rules that make timing and legal experience critical.
Here are a few laws that may impact your claim:
- Reduced Filing Deadlines: As of 2023, Florida law now gives you just 2 years to file a personal injury claim—half the time that used to be allowed. If your crash involved a government agency, additional notice requirements may apply.
- Government & Contractor Immunity: Under F.S. 337.195, construction contractors may be shielded from liability if they followed approved plans and safety rules—even if the work zone felt unsafe to you.
- Double Penalties in Active Work Zones: If the other driver was speeding or driving recklessly while workers were present, they may face doubled fines—and it may help prove their negligence.
Florida’s Move Over Law Also Applies in Construction Zones
In addition to doubled fines and shortened deadlines, Florida’s Move Over Law (Florida Statutes § 316.126) plays a key role in many construction zone crashes.
Under this law, drivers must either move over a lane or slow down to 20 mph below the speed limit when approaching emergency, utility, or construction vehicles parked at the side of the road with flashing lights.
Failing to move over or reduce speed in these situations can lead to crashes, traffic citations, and increased liability for the at-fault driver.
If the driver who caused your accident ignored this rule, it may serve as strong evidence of negligence—and support your claim for compensation. Our attorneys frequently use this statute to hold careless drivers accountable after a work zone crash.
These laws are often used by insurance companies to avoid paying full compensation. That’s why working with a local law firm that understands both the statutes and the local road conditions is so important.
Who Is Responsible for a Construction Zone Crash?
It depends on the circumstances—but fault may not lie solely with the other driver.
At Goldman Babboni Fernandez Murphy & Walsh, we thoroughly investigate all potential sources of liability, including:
- Negligent Drivers
If another driver was speeding, distracted, or failed to follow road signage in the work zone, they may be fully or partially at fault. - Construction Companies
Contractors are responsible for keeping work zones safe. If signs were missing, detours were poorly marked, or lane closures were confusing, they may be held accountable—if they violated safety standards. - Government Entities (FDOT or City of Bradenton)
If the project was improperly managed or dangerous by design, a government body may share liability. Suing them requires special legal procedures—and fast action.
Proving who’s liable takes more than a police report. Our legal team works with crash investigators, traffic engineers, and safety experts to document every detail.
How to Strengthen Your Case After a Construction Zone Accident in Manatee County
If you were injured in a crash near roadwork on I-75, US 301, or any construction-heavy road in Bradenton, the steps you take next could directly impact the success of your claim. Construction zone accident cases often involve multiple parties and added legal complexity, so building a strong case early is essential.
Here’s how to protect your health, your rights, and your potential compensation:
1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Even if you feel okay, some injuries take hours or days to surface. Seeing a doctor right away creates an official record—and helps protect your health and your case.
2. Get a Police Report
Be sure to mention anything that seemed confusing or dangerous about the construction zone—missing signage, poor lighting, sudden lane closures. A well-documented police report is a powerful tool later.
3. Take Photos and Videos
Document the crash scene thoroughly, including:
- Vehicle damage
- Road signs, cones, barriers
- Lane shifts or merge points
- Construction equipment in the area
- Any debris or obstructions
If possible, include wide-angle shots showing the entire work zone layout.
4. Gather Witness Information
Other drivers, workers, or bystanders may have seen exactly what happened—or noticed something unsafe about the work zone setup. Get their contact info while you still can.
5. Avoid Giving Statements to Insurance Adjusters
Don’t let them twist your words or shift the blame. Politely decline until you’ve spoken with a qualified attorney.
6. Contact a Local Attorney Experienced in Construction Zone Claims
The sooner our team gets involved, the faster we can preserve vital evidence—like traffic camera footage, black box data, and roadwork permits—and begin identifying all potentially liable parties.
Why Experience Matters in Construction Zone Accident Claims
Work zone cases aren’t like regular car accident claims—they’re more complex, and the stakes are often higher.
At Goldman Babboni Fernandez Murphy & Walsh, we’ve handled thousands of cases across Florida, including many involving construction zones, government defendants, and commercial contractors. With over 150 years of combined experience, our legal team understands the tactical moves insurance companies use—and how to beat them.
What Sets Us Apart:
- We Know the Local Roads.
From University Parkway to the diverging diamond on I-75, we understand Bradenton’s crash hotspots and how they affect claims. - We Build Trial-Ready Cases.
Even if your case settles, we prepare like it’s going to court—because that’s how we get results. - We Work With Experts.
Accident reconstructionists, roadway engineers, life care planners—whatever your case needs, we bring in the right professionals. - You Work With a Senior Partner.
No case managers, no hand-offs. You’ll speak with an attorney who’s handled multi-million dollar results—and who’s ready to fight for you.
Don’t Wait—Get Legal Help After a Construction Zone Crash
If you were injured in a construction zone crash in Bradenton or anywhere in Manatee County, the clock is ticking. Florida’s two-year deadline and complex liability laws mean every day matters.
At Goldman Babboni Fernandez Murphy & Walsh, our attorneys know how to investigate work zone accidents, hold drivers and contractors accountable, and fight for full compensation. We’ll handle the legal work—so you can focus on healing.
Call 941-752-7000 now for a free consultation. We’ll answer your questions, explain your options, and meet you wherever is most convenient.
Injured in a Construction Zone Crash in Bradenton? We’re Here to Help.
If you’ve been hurt in a construction zone accident in Bradenton or Manatee County, don’t navigate the aftermath alone. At Goldman Babboni Fernandez Murphy & Walsh, our experienced attorneys understand the complexities of work zone accidents and are committed to securing the compensation you deserve.
Visit us at 1215 Manatee Ave W, Bradenton, FL 34205
Call us at 941-752-7000 for a free consultation
We’re ready to meet you at our office, your home, hospital, or any location convenient for you. Let us handle the legal challenges so you can focus on your recovery.
The post Hurt in A Road Construction Accident Near Bradenton? You’re Not Alone —Here’s What to Do appeared first on Justice Pays.
