Work zones keep Arizona’s roads safe and functional, but they can also be dangerous. Every year, hundreds of crashes happen in construction zones across the state, often because a driver didn’t slow down, got distracted, or failed to notice a lane shift in time. These accidents can be devastating for both drivers and roadside workers. And the numbers show it.
Arizona Work Zone Accident Trends
Work zone crashes aren’t rare, and they’re getting deadlier.
In 2023, Arizona recorded 41 work zone fatalities, more than double the 19 deaths in 2022, according to National & State Traffic Data by Work Zone Safety Information Clearinghouse. Seventeen of those deaths involved large trucks, and seven victims were pedestrians or roadside workers struck by passing vehicles.
To put that into perspective, Arizona accounted for roughly 4.5% of all U.S. work zone deaths, even though the state represents less than 2% of the national population. That means Arizonans are more than twice as likely to die in a work zone crash compared to the national average.
Here’s how Arizona compares to the rest of the country:
| Category | Arizona | U.S. | AZ Share of U.S. |
| Total Work Zone Fatalities | 41 | 898 | 4.5% |
| Truck-Involved Fatalities | 17 | ~180 | 9% |
| Pedestrian/Worker Fatalities | 7 | 176 | 4% |
| Passenger-Vehicle Driver Fatalities | 24 | 552 | 4% |
Even though Arizona has far fewer drivers than larger states, its work zone fatality rate is disproportionately high. This reflects the state’s mix of high-speed freeways, ongoing highway expansion projects, and frequent nighttime construction, which occurs to avoid extreme daytime heat.
Driving through those zones after dark adds unique challenges, reduced visibility, driver fatigue, and confusing lane patterns, all of which increase the likelihood of a serious crash.
Why Work Zone Crashes Happen
Work zones are unpredictable. Lanes can narrow, traffic slows suddenly, and flashing lights or barriers can confuse even experienced drivers. When someone isn’t paying full attention, the results can be catastrophic. Some of the most common causes of work zone crashes in Arizona include:
- Speeding through construction areas
- Distracted driving, such as texting or using a GPS
- Sudden lane shifts or detours on highways like I-10, I-17, or Loop 202
- Improperly marked or uneven lanes
- Poor lighting or visibility during night work
- Debris or equipment left near open traffic lanes
These risks raise an important question: when a work zone crash happens, who can actually be held responsible?
Who Can Be Liable in a Work Zone Crash?
Determining who’s at fault after a work zone accident can be complicated. Multiple parties, from drivers to construction companies, may share responsibility.
WHEN THE CONSTRUCTION COMPANY MAY BE LIABLE
Construction crews and contractors have a duty to make sure the zone is safe for drivers and workers alike. They must post clear signs, properly mark lane changes, and remove hazards once work ends.
If they fail to follow safety protocols, for example, leaving debris on the roadway or not setting up proper lighting, they can be held liable for resulting injuries or deaths. Under Arizona Revised Statutes § 12-2506, multiple parties can share fault in proportion to their negligence.
WHEN A DRIVER MAY BE LIABLE
Drivers have their own responsibility to follow posted speed limits, pay attention, and obey flaggers. When someone drives distracted, speeds through a construction zone, or ignores warning signs, they can be held financially responsible for the damage they cause.
Arizona follows a pure comparative negligence rule, meaning you can still recover damages even if you were partly at fault, your compensation is just reduced by your percentage of fault.
Arizona Laws and Deadlines
Most personal injury claims in Arizona, including work zone crashes, must be filed within two years of the accident.
However, if your claim involves a government entity or contractor, you may have as little as 180 days to file a notice of claim. Missing this deadline can mean losing your right to compensation altogether.
Regardless of who caused it, the aftermath of a work zone crash can be overwhelming. Knowing what to do right away can protect both your health and your case.
What to Do After a Work Zone Crash
If you’ve been involved in a work zone accident in Arizona, what you do in the minutes that follow can make a big difference:
- Get to safety. Move your vehicle out of active traffic lanes and turn on your hazard lights. If construction barriers block your exit, stay inside your car with your seatbelt fastened until help arrives.
- Call 911. Request medical help and an officer to document the scene. Be clear that the crash occurred in an active construction or work zone, so it’s noted in the police report. This detail can be crucial later.
- Document everything. Take wide and close-up photos of the entire scene such as cones, barricades, lane markings, warning signs, lighting conditions, and any construction equipment or debris. Note whether flaggers were present and if signage was missing or confusing.
- Collect information from everyone. Beyond other drivers and witnesses, gather the name of the construction company, any visible contractor or subcontractor names on vehicles or safety vests, and contact details of onsite workers if possible. These details often disappear once crews clear the area.
- Preserve physical evidence. Don’t move damaged vehicle parts or debris if it’s safe to leave them in place. If your car was struck by construction equipment or flying materials, document the impact points.
- Avoid admitting fault. Even a simple “I’m sorry” can be used against you later, and in work zone cases, multiple parties may try to shift blame. Stick to the facts when speaking with police.
- Contact a lawyer before speaking with insurance. Insurance adjusters and sometimes contractors’ insurers may call quickly to get statements or push for early settlements. Talk to an Arizona car accident lawyer first. These cases often involve multiple defendants, and one wrong statement can limit your recovery.
But most work zone accidents can be avoided with extra caution behind the wheel, especially in Arizona, where roadwork is year-round.
Safety Tips for Driving Through Work Zones:
Driving through work zones safely isn’t complicated, but it does require patience and attention. A few small changes in driving behavior can save lives including your own.
- Expect the unexpected
- Slow down
- Keep a safe distance
- Pay attention
- Obey road crew flaggers
- Stay alert and minimize distractions
- Keep up with traffic flow
- Check road conditions before you travel
- Be patient and stay calm
Unfortunately, construction companies, state agencies, or other drivers may still act carelessly, leaving you to deal with the aftermath.
How Our Car Accident Lawyers Can Help
Work zone accidents often involve complex liability issues and multiple insurance policies from contractors, subcontractors, and government agencies. That’s where we come in.
At Esquire Law, our Arizona car accident lawyers have the experience to navigate these cases and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve. We’ll investigate every detail, determine who’s at fault, and handle the insurance companies so you can focus on recovery.
You don’t pay anything unless we win your case.
If you or someone you love was injured in a work zone crash, don’t wait. Contact Esquire Law today for a free case evaluation, and let our team fight for your rights and your recovery.
For more information on Arizona highway construction zone safety, see the following resources: