Roadway Construction Practices

Assessing Compliance with Safety Standards EES evaluated the construction practices employed during the demolition of Cornelius P. Voorhies Road to assess whether they complied with safety regulations. Our analysis included a review of whether the construction zone was managed according to proper industry practices and whether appropriate safety measures were in place to protect drivers from hazards.

Temporary Traffic Control

Evaluating Detours and Barriers for Driver Safety Temporary traffic control measures play a critical role in protecting drivers from construction-related hazards. EES reviewed the temporary traffic control setup at the accident site, assessing whether proper detours, barriers, or warnings were in place to alert drivers to the road closure. Our investigation focused on whether the lack of effective traffic control contributed to the driver’s failure to detect the demolished road.

End-of-Road Signage and MUTCD Compliance

Analyzing Signage for Adequacy and Visibility End-of-road signage is essential for alerting drivers to road closures or dangerous conditions. EES analyzed whether the end-of-road signage at the site complied with MUTCD standards and whether it was adequately placed and visible under nighttime conditions. Our findings addressed whether insufficient signage contributed to the driver’s inability to recognize the hazard.

Project Plans and Specifications

Reviewing Construction Documentation for Gaps EES examined the project plans and specifications to determine if any gaps or inconsistencies contributed to the accident. This review focused on the design and planning of the temporary road closure, specifically whether the plans included proper safety measures, detours, and signage.

Construction Sequencing

Evaluating the Timing of Safety Measure Implementation The sequence of construction activities can have a significant impact on driver safety. EES evaluated the construction sequencing to determine if the timing of the road demolition and installation of temporary safety measures were properly coordinated. Our analysis provided insights into whether the construction sequence contributed to the driver’s lack of awareness of the road’s condition.

Lighting and Visibility

Assessing Visibility Under Dark Conditions Lighting and visibility are critical factors in nighttime driving safety. EES conducted a detailed assessment of the lighting conditions at the site, determining if inadequate lighting contributed to the driver’s inability to see the end of the road and avoid the fatal accident.

Contractual Obligations and Responsibilities

Determining Accountability for Roadway Safety EES investigated the contractual obligations and responsibilities of the construction contractor and the public agency overseeing the project. This analysis focused on whether these parties fulfilled their obligations to ensure driver safety, including the implementation of adequate traffic control measures, signage, and road closures.

Client Benefits

Thorough Review of Construction Practices and Safety Measures: EES provided a comprehensive review of the construction practices, temporary traffic control measures, and project plans, offering critical insights into the cause of the accident.

Detailed Analysis of MUTCD Compliance and Signage Placement: Our evaluation of end-of-road signage and MUTCD compliance helped the legal team build a strong case based on the lack of adequate safety measures.

Expert Testimony on Contractual Responsibilities: EES’s expert analysis of the contractual responsibilities of the construction contractor and public agency provided key evidence to determine liability for the fatal accident.