Work zones combine fast-moving traffic, heavy machinery, narrowed lanes, uneven surfaces, and numerous distractions. It is no surprise that serious crashes frequently occur in these areas. If you were injured in a Colorado construction or work zone, Matthew C. Clawson can pursue full and fair compensation on your behalf.
What Is a Construction Zone Accident in Colorado?
A construction (work) zone accident is any collision that occurs in or near an active road construction area. These zones are typically marked by:
- Orange warning signs
- Cones and barriers
- Lane shifts
- Flaggers
- Reduced speed limits
These crash scenes often involve:
- Passenger vehicles
- Commercial trucks
- Construction equipment
- Motorcycles
- Pedestrians and cyclists
- Road and utility workers
Colorado Work Zone Safety Note: Colorado law authorizes enhanced penalties and doubled fines for certain violations in properly signed work zones to protect workers and the public (C.R.S. § 42-4-614).
Common Types of Construction Zone Crashes
- Rear-end collisions caused by sudden slowdowns or stop-and-go traffic
- Sideswipes during lane shifts, merges, or narrowed lanes
- Truck and commercial vehicle crashes due to limited maneuverability
- Pedestrian or worker strikes when barriers or traffic control are inadequate
- Equipment or vehicle incidents involving blind spots, improper backing, or malfunctioning machinery
Any of these collisions can cause severe injuries and significant financial losses.
Top Causes of Work Zone Accidents in Colorado
- Distracted driving (phones, in-vehicle systems, inattention)
- Speeding or failing to follow reduced work zone speed limits
- Obstructed or confusing construction signage
- Dangerous road conditions (drop-offs, gravel, debris, uneven pavement)
- Aggressive driving or tailgating
- Poor maintenance and faulty construction equipment
Identifying the precise cause of the crash is essential to proving fault and maximizing your recovery.
Common Injuries from Construction Zone Crashes
- Whiplash and neck injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and concussions
- Fractures and broken bones
- Spinal cord injuries and potential permanent impairment
- Burns, lacerations, and crush injuries
- Internal bleeding and organ damage
Always seek immediate medical attention and follow your treatment plan. Doing so protects your health and helps document your personal injury claim.
Who Can Be Liable?
Depending on the circumstances, one or more parties may share liability:
- Negligent drivers (speeding, distracted driving, impairment)
- Construction companies, contractors, or subcontractors (unsafe traffic control plans, inadequate barriers, failure to comply with MUTCD standards)
- Municipalities or state agencies (improper signage, unsafe design, negligent road maintenance; strict notice rules apply)
- Equipment manufacturers (defective machinery)
- Commercial truck drivers or motor carriers (hours-of-service violations, negligent hiring, poor maintenance)
Work zone cases are evidence-intensive. Our team acts quickly to preserve traffic control plans, contractor logs, video footage, vehicle data, and witness statements.
Is Colorado a No-Fault State?
No. Colorado follows a fault-based auto insurance system. The at-fault driver (and their insurer) is responsible for your damages. You may recover compensation through an insurance claim or a personal injury lawsuit.
What Compensation Can I Recover?
You may be entitled to compensation for:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Property damage (repair or total loss)
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Out-of-pocket costs (transportation, home care, medications, etc.)
We work closely with medical and financial experts to accurately value your current and future damages so you are not underpaid.
What to Do After a Construction Zone Crash
- Call 911 and obtain medical care.
- Document the scene: photos or videos of signage, cones, lane shifts, debris, skid marks, vehicle damage, and injuries.
- Gather information: drivers, witnesses, contractors, and project identification if available.
- Do not admit fault or speculate about the cause of the crash.
- Contact Matthew C. Clawson & Clawson, LLP before speaking with insurance adjusters.
We handle all communications, preserve critical evidence, and build a strong claim from the beginning.
Frequently Asked Questions (Colorado Work Zone Crashes)
Are fines really doubled in Colorado work zones?
Yes. Properly marked work zones allow doubled fines and enhanced penalties to protect workers and drivers.
Can I recover compensation if I was partially at fault?
Often, yes. Under Colorado’s modified comparative negligence law, you may recover as long as you are less than 50% at fault. Your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault.
What if a government entity is involved?
Claims involving public entities require strict notice within 182 days under the Colorado Governmental Immunity Act. Missing this deadline can bar your claim.
How long will my case take?
It depends on injury severity, treatment duration, liability disputes, and insurance response. Many cases resolve through settlement; others require litigation.
Call (719) 602-5888 or contact us online for a free consultation.