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Author: Sky Law Group

Construction Zone Accident Lawyer Orange County | Caltrans & Contractor Liability

May 14, 2026 - Uncategorized by

Construction zone accidents are among the highest-value crash types in California — workers’ compensation rates are doubled in Caltrans construction zones, fines for traffic violations double under CVC §42010, and victims have potential claims against the contractor, subcontractor, Caltrans, and the at-fault driver. Construction crashes account for over 800 deaths and 25,000 injuries annually in California per Caltrans data. Settlements range from $50,000 for moderate injuries to $10,000,000+ for catastrophic injuries with multiple defendants. Under California Code of Civil Procedure §335.1 you have 2 years to file (6 months for government entity claims). Call Sky Law Group 24/7 at (844) 475-9529. Hablamos Español. What Causes Construction Zone Accidents? Inadequate lane closure signage — Drivers don’t have warning to merge in time Defective traffic control — Missing barriers, cones, or flaggers Sudden lane shifts without warning Construction equipment encroaching on travel lanes Workers in roadway without proper protection Debris and gravel from construction creating road hazards Unfilled trenches or unmarked drop-offs Speeding drivers ignoring reduced construction-zone speed limits Distracted driving in heavy congestion typical of zones Defective road design during construction Multiple Liable Parties — Why Construction Zone Cases Are So Valuable Construction zone cases frequently involve multiple defendants, each with their own insurance: The at-fault driver — Standard auto liability The general contractor — Responsible for traffic control plan compliance, signage, barriers, and worksite safety. Usually carries $1,000,000–$10,000,000 in commercial general liability coverage The subcontractor — May be directly responsible for the specific defect (e.g., the sign company that placed […]