A recent WLOS ABC News Channel 13 investigative report focused on the dangers of the I-26 bridge construction area. According to one contractor, safety issues at the particular work zone have caused at least 12 crashes in the area. Although many of these crashes have been attributed to issues like distracted driving, there are still questions as to whether or not the construction area is properly laid out and provides adequate visibility for drivers. Through the course of their investigation, WLOS ABC News Channel 13 found numerous police reports indicating poor visibility and vehicles coming out of their lanes.
Crashes in The Construction Zone
A driver who was clipped by a large vehicle with an extended trailer, struck the concrete barriers, corrected her car, and continued driving. She had nowhere to safely pull over after the wreck. While she did assess the damage and call the police after she got home, she was very lucky the crash wasn’t worse. There have been a variety of crashes in the area, including rollover injury crashes. Even law enforcement officers know that the construction area makes it difficult to maintain lanes safely through this area.
Improving Safety at The I-26 Bridge
WLOS ABC News Channel 13 also reports that an open records request shows that the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) has been asking the contractor to fix the area for months, although no action has been taken. Faded lines need to be repainted and refreshed. Contractors also need to address the dangers involving the possibility of hitting barriers and the lack of safety area beside them. If a vehicle strikes these barriers, there is a risk of going into a drop-off right beside the roadway.
Car Accidents in Asheville
Even in the best of circumstances, we can still become injured due to dangerous or distracted drivers. The last thing we should be worrying about is whether or not the road is in safe and navigable condition. If you have been injured or if you have lost a loved one in a car accident in or around the Asheville area, contact the experienced team at Davis Law Group, P.A. at 888-773-8388 for an immediate free case consultation.