Highway Construction Accidents in the SouthCoast - 5 Tips to Avoid Them

The 3 car accident at the Route 195 and Route 140 interchange in New Bedford on June 10 is just one of many at that dangerous interchange. Unfortunately, this is not the first accident in the SouthCoast area at that location – even since the road opened back up after the flooding this winter. One of the reasons this interchange is so dangerous is due in large part to the ongoing construction there.

Construction areas present unique dangers drivers should be prepared. Construction workers and police officers are walking around and working in the road, so follow the reduced speed limit posted on an orange signs throughout the work zone. Not only is the fine greater for not following the reduced speed, but so are the potential dangers.

Here are 5 tips for driving in construction areas:

• Read signs, follow directions, and be prepared to slow down or stop if need be; 
• Control the distance between your car and the car in front of you for necessary reaction time; 
• Look out for construction machinery and workers; 
• Remember flaggers have the same authority as any regulatory sign – you can be cited for disobeying a flagger’s instructions; 
• Leave your phone alone!

The construction at the I-195/140 interchange also presents drivers with a dangerous lane shift.

Here are 2 tips for successfully navigating dangerous lane shifts:

• Drivers are warned of lane shifts by an orange diamond-shaped sign; 
• Check all of your mirrors

Of course, it is always best that accidents be avoided with safe and cautious driving but in the event that you do find yourself involved in a car accident at the Routes 195 and 140 interchange or at any other construction site, the SouthCoast accident attorneys at Phillips & Garcia can help!