Every time you pass through a construction zone, there are unseen hands at work—individuals who risk their safety to improve our highways and keep the public moving. As National Work Zone Awareness Week (NWZAW) approaches, it’s time to take a deeper look at the dangers road crews face every day in Pennsylvania, and what legal protections exist when something goes wrong.

Construction workers in active work zones are among the most vulnerable individuals on our roads. Despite safety measures, Pennsylvania consistently ranks among the states with high numbers of work zone injuries and fatalities. These incidents don’t just affect the workers—they ripple out to families, communities, and other drivers. If you or someone you love has been injured in a Pennsylvania road work zone, knowing your legal rights is vital.

The Reality of Work Zone Dangers in Pennsylvania

According to PennDOT, over 1,800 work zone crashes were reported in 2023 across the state. These incidents resulted in over 20 fatalities and hundreds of serious injuries, many involving road workers performing critical duties in high-speed traffic environments.

The contributing factors include:

Distracted driving, including texting, navigation input, and in-car distractions

Speeding through work zones, even with double fine penalties in place

Limited visibility, especially at night or in inclement weather

Failure to observe signage or flagger instructions

Driver aggression and impatience in narrow lanes

Construction signage that is either confusing or misplaced

Despite reflective vests, barriers, and orange cones, workers often remain just feet away from live traffic. A moment of driver inattention can result in catastrophic injuries—ranging from broken bones and amputations to traumatic brain injuries and death.

Who’s Liable After a Construction Zone Accident?

In Pennsylvania, determining liability after a road work zone accident depends on who was involved and how the accident occurred. Possible liable parties include:

Negligent Drivers

If a motorist speeds, texts, or ignores signage and causes harm, they can be held liable for injuries or fatalities. Victims may pursue personal injury claims for:

Medical bills

Lost wages

Pain and suffering

Permanent disability or disfigurement

Construction Companies

If the work zone is improperly marked or lacks adequate warnings, the construction company may be at fault. Examples of negligence include:

Lack of signage before lane closures

Poor lighting or visibility

Unsecured machinery or equipment

Poor Signage

Confusing Signage

Government Entities

State or municipal agencies may be responsible for inadequate traffic control plans or insufficient work zone protections. While filing a claim against a government agency is more complex due to sovereign immunity, it is possible under the Pennsylvania Political Subdivision Tort Claims Act, provided proper notice and timelines are followed.

In cases of death, families may also file wrongful death and survival actions under Pennsylvania law (42 Pa.C.S. §§ 8301 and 8302), allowing them to recover damages for funeral costs, loss of companionship, and pain experienced prior to death.

Legal Protections for Injured Road Workers

Construction workers injured in Pennsylvania work zones are covered under the Workers’ Compensation Act, which provides:

Coverage for medical expenses

Partial wage replacement

Disability benefits

Specific loss benefits for permanent injuries, such as limb loss

However, in some cases, workers may pursue third-party claims in addition to workers’ compensation. For example, if a driver unrelated to the employer causes the injury, the worker may seek damages through a personal injury lawsuit, often resulting in broader compensation than workers’ comp alone.

For families who’ve lost a loved one in a work zone, death benefits are also available under workers’ compensation, covering a portion of the deceased worker’s wages and burial expenses.

What to Do If You're Involved in a Work Zone Accident

Time is of the essence following a construction zone injury. Whether you’re a worker, another driver, or a pedestrian, taking the right steps immediately after an accident ensures your safety and preserves your legal rights.

Here’s what to do:

Call 911 and seek immediate medical attention. Even seemingly minor injuries can worsen over time.

Document the scene—if safe, take photos of the work zone layout, signage, equipment, injuries, and vehicle damage.

File a police report and notify your employer (if you are a worker).

Get witness contact information, including co-workers, bystanders, and other drivers.

Consult an experienced Pennsylvania work zone injury lawyer to evaluate your rights and build your case.

Remember, under Pennsylvania’s statute of limitations (42 Pa.C.S. § 5524), you typically have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, claims involving government entities often require notice within six months, making early legal action critical.

Frischman & Rizza: Advocates for Pennsylvania’s Injured Workers and Families

At Frischman & Rizza, we’re more than personal injury attorneys—we’re advocates for those who serve in the most dangerous roadside conditions. Our firm has represented injured workers, grieving families, and motorists affected by the consequences of work zone negligence.

We handle:

Complex multi-party litigation involving construction companies and government entities

Workers’ compensation and third-party claims

Wrongful death and catastrophic injury cases

Negotiation with insurers and aggressive litigation when needed

We understand the emotional and financial toll these incidents impose. That’s why we prioritize compassion, clear communication, and strong legal advocacy to help our clients recover and rebuild.

Make Your Voice Heard—Let’s Protect Those Who Protect Us

National Work Zone Awareness Week isn’t just a campaign—it’s a reminder. Behind every orange barrel is a person with a family, a future, and the right to be safe. If you or someone you know has been injured in a Pennsylvania road work zone, don’t wait.

If you’ve been hurt or lost a loved one in a Pennsylvania work zone accident, don’t navigate the legal aftermath alone. Call Frischman & Rizza at (412) 247-7300 or schedule your free consultation today. Your safety matters—and so does your justice.