Uneven Road Surfaces in Construction Zones: What Drivers Need to Know After an Injury

Construction zones—often called cone zones—are some of the most dangerous areas for drivers. Narrow lanes, equipment, distracted workers, and sudden changes in the roadway create hazards that can lead to serious injuries and costly vehicle damage. One of the most overlooked dangers is uneven road surfaces, which can force a driver out of their lane, cause a loss of control, or result in immediate mechanical damage.

If you or your vehicle were harmed in a construction area, understanding how these hazards occur—and what your rights are—is crucial.

1. Identifying Hazardous Road Conditions in Construction Zones

Construction zones frequently contain temporary changes that alter how a road feels, handles, or directs traffic. Some of the most common hazards include:

Patches and Abrupt Surface Changes

Quick fixes or partial paving can leave behind:

• Raised or sunken asphalt patches

• Sharp edges between old and new pavement

• Loose gravel or unsealed surfaces

These surface changes can cause tires to jolt, skid, or drift into another lane—especially at highway speeds.

Steel Plates Covering Trenches

Steel plates are meant to create a temporary bridge over open trenches, but when poorly installed they can:

• Shift under the weight of a vehicle

• Create slippery surfaces when wet

• Sit unevenly, creating a “lip” that can damage wheels, rims, or suspensions

A plate that’s not secured with asphalt “ramps” at the edges can cause a driver to momentarily lose control.

Detours That Force Drivers Into Unsafe Lanes

Temporary lane shifts are unavoidable during roadwork—but they must be safe. Problems arise when contractors create:

• Lanes that curve too sharply

• Narrow detours with poor visibility

• Off-camber (tilted) surfaces

• Sudden drops or ridges where the temporary lane begins

Any of these can cause a vehicle to drift, swerve, or collide with barriers or other drivers.

2. Identifying Injuries and Vehicle Damage After an Uneven

Surface Incident

When a driver hits an abrupt or unsafe surface in a cone zone, both personal injuries and vehicle damage may occur.

Common Injuries

Even a brief loss of control can lead to:

• Whiplash or neck strains

• Back and spinal injuries

• Airbag impact injuries

• Sprains, bruises, or fractures from sudden jolts

• Emotional trauma, anxiety, or fear of driving

If another vehicle is involved, the injuries can be even more severe.

Vehicle Damage to Watch For

Uneven surfaces frequently cause:

• Bent or cracked rims

• Tire blowouts or slow leaks

• Misalignment or suspension damage

• Undercarriage scrapes or punctures

• Damage to bumpers or side panels from sudden impacts

Even if your vehicle seems fine, a mechanic may find damage that wasn’t immediately obvious.

3. Recovery Actions: What to Do After an Injury or Damage in a Cone Zone

If unsafe road conditions caused your injury or damage, you may have a claim. Here’s how to protect your rights:

1. Document Everything

• Take photos of the hazard (plates, patches, uneven lanes, missing signage).

• Photograph your vehicle damage and any visible injuries.

• Gather names of witnesses or construction workers if available.

• Note the date, time, weather, and any missing or unclear signage.

2. Seek Medical Attention Immediately

Even low-speed jolts can cause injuries that only appear hours or days later. Medical documentation is a critical part of your case.

3. Report the Incident

You can report the unsafe condition to:

• Local police

• The city or state transportation department

• The construction contractor (often listed on signage at the site)

This creates a paper trail showing the hazard was real and preventable.

4. Speak With an Attorney Experienced in Construction-Zone Cases

Construction-zone injury cases involve multiple parties—contractors, subcontractors, municipalities, and insurance companies. Liability may fall on one or several of them.

An attorney can help you:

• Preserve key evidence

• Identify the responsible parties

• Recover compensation for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and vehicle repair or replacement

When a cone zone isn’t properly maintained, you shouldn’t be the one who pays the price.

If You Were Injured in a Cone Zone, We Can Help

Uneven surfaces in construction areas are more than just an inconvenience—they’re a danger that can cause serious injuries and expensive vehicle damage. If you or someone you love was harmed, you may be entitled to compensation.

Contact us today to discuss your case and learn what your next steps should be.