New road construction can be a major headache for drivers. It often leads to unexpected delays, forces you to adjust your route on the fly and can cause frustration that leads to reckless driving. While you may not always be able to avoid construction on your regular routes, you can plan for it by staying informed about upcoming projects.
The commonwealth has information online
The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania’s website has a dedicated news section where you can find updates about road construction projects. This resource is invaluable for planning your trips and avoiding potential delays.
For those living in Butler, PA, it’s important to know that this area is part of District 10, which covers Armstrong, Butler, Clarion, Indiana and Jefferson counties. You can check for local road work projects specific to this district on the District 10 news page. In 2025, several projects are scheduled in District 10, including:
- Hansen Avenue-Whitestown Road intersection reconstruction: Started March 17, 2025, this $3 million project involves reconstructing the intersection to improve traffic flow and safety. Expect lane closures and detours during construction.
- Route 228 corridor improvement projects: This extensive $82.44 million project, which started in 2021, aims to enhance the Route 228 corridor by widening lanes, adding turning lanes, and improving intersections. It is ongoing and will continue through 2025.
- Freedom Road project: Beginning in 2020, this $9.8 million project focuses on widening Freedom Road to accommodate increased traffic and improve safety. Construction is expected to continue throughout 2025.
- Three Degree Road project: This $55.89 project involves improving Three Degree Road, including widening and resurfacing. The third phase of this project has passed its end-of-2024 deadline.
- Oakland Avenue reconstruction project: Located in Indiana County, this $19 million project includes a full-depth reconstruction of Oakland Avenue to improve road conditions and safety.
Staying informed about these projects can help you plan your routes and avoid potential delays.
Who is responsible for construction zone crashes?
Determining liability in construction zone accidents can be complex and often involves multiple parties. Here are the key entities that may be held responsible:
- Drivers: Drivers who violate traffic laws, such as speeding or distracted driving, can be held liable for accidents in construction zones. Drivers need to exercise extra caution and follow all posted signs and speed limits.
- Construction companies: These companies can be responsible if they fail to implement adequate safety measures, such as proper signage, barriers and traffic control devices. If the construction zone is poorly managed or confusing, the construction company may be liable for resulting accidents.
- Government entities: Local or state government agencies overseeing the road work can be liable if the road design is flawed or insufficient oversight of the construction project. They are responsible for ensuring that construction zones are safe for drivers.
- Equipment manufacturers: If faulty equipment used in the construction zone contributes to an accident, the manufacturer of that equipment can be held liable. This includes issues with construction vehicles, barriers or other machinery.
- Contractors and subcontractors: These parties can also be liable if they fail to follow safety protocols or if their actions directly lead to an accident. This includes improper placement of equipment or failure to communicate hazards effectively.
Construction zones require extra caution from all parties involved to prevent accidents.
Help available to those injured in a construction zone
If you are in an accident within a construction zone, it’s essential to document the scene and gather witness statements to help determine liability and seek compensation. By staying informed and cautious, you can avoid dangerous situations in construction zones. However, if you end up in an accident with injuries, contact a local law firm to help you get compensation from the responsible parties.
