What Drivers Need to Know About Shoulder Work and Accident Risks
Driving requires awareness and adherence to various traffic laws designed to keep everyone safe on the road, including those working on the shoulder. Roadway shoulders are often used by emergency vehicles, construction workers, and maintenance crews who are performing essential duties to keep our roads safe and functional. Respecting the rules and regulations surrounding shoulder work is key to avoiding Clearwater, Hudson, and Tampa accidents.
State Shoulder Work Rules
In Florida, specific rules and regulations govern how drivers should behave when approaching or passing work zones, including those on the shoulder. The most critical law to be aware of is the Move Over law, which requires drivers to move over one lane when approaching emergency vehicles, tow trucks, sanitation vehicles, and utility service vehicles that are stopped on the roadside with flashing lights. If it is not safe to move over, drivers must slow down to 20 mph below the posted speed limit.
Working on the shoulder of a roadway is inherently risky. Workers are often just a few feet away from fast-moving traffic, and any distraction, impairment, or negligence on the part of a driver can result in a catastrophic accident. Common dangers include:
- Distracted driving
- Speeding
- Failure to move over
- Impaired driving
- Weather conditions
While the Move Over law is in place to shield vulnerable parties, it primarily applies to emergency and service vehicles, its spirit extends to all situations where workers are present on the shoulder.
Whenever drivers notice someone on the shoulder of a roadway, they should exercise caution, reduce speed, and be prepared to stop. This is true when they see workers on the side of the road or an individual next to a broken down vehicle. Failing to do so can lead to severe accidents, injuries, and legal consequences.
Accessing Damage Recovery After a Shoulder Work Accident
If you are a worker injured in a shoulder work accident, or if you are a driver who collided with another vehicle due to a failure to safely navigate a shoulder work zone, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
The first step is to report the accident to the appropriate authorities and seek medical attention. Documentation is crucial as it provides the evidence needed to establish liability and damages. Working with an experienced Florida personal injury lawyer can help you navigate the legal process, negotiate with insurance companies, and, if necessary, file a personal injury lawsuit.
Shoulder work is part of maintaining and improving Florida’s roadways, but it comes with significant risks for workers and drivers alike. By understanding and adhering to Florida’s traffic laws, particularly the Move Over law, drivers can help reduce the risk of accidents and injuries.
Is it time for you to talk to a lawyer about an accident you were involved in on the shoulder of a Florida highway? Consult with the attorneys at Roman & Roman to learn more about your rights and pursue the compensation you need to recover and move forward. Connect with over 100 years of combined legal experience today, schedule a confidential consultation.
Although the law firm of Roman & Roman has offices in Clearwater, Hudson and Tampa, we handle cases and claims throughout Florida. We also meet personally with our clients if at all possible, rather than impersonally over the phone or on the Internet.
