Road Construction in St. George: Why Work Zones Increase Accident Risks

Increased Accident Risks in Road Construction Zones: What St. George Drivers Need to Know

As planned improvements and road construction begins across much of Southern Utah, drivers in St. George can expect more than just few delays and detours, drivers should also be aware of the increased risks for accidents in these construction zones.
With major upgrades planned for Bluff Street in Summer of 2026 from St. George Blvd to Main Street, driving safety and heightened awareness in those areas will be more important than ever.

Major Construction Coming to Bluff Street

The Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) announced significant upcoming improvements in the St. George area, including:

• Reconstruction and resurfacing of Bluff Street (SR-18)
• New drainage systems and medians
• Traffic reconfigurations to reduce conflict points
• Long term construction is expected to last into 2028. UDOT downtown ST. George road construction information

While these improvements aim to enhance road safety long term by reducing "conflict points", construction zones can create short term hazards that every driver should take seriously.

Why Construction Zones Are More Dangerous

Work zones fundamentally change normal road function. Narrower lanes, sudden stops, and daily shifts in traffic patterns all increase risk.
Here’s what the data shows:

• 898 people were killed and over 40,000 injured in work zone crashes in 2023. NSC DATA
• Nearly 96,000 crashes occur annually in construction zones. CDC DATA
• Fatalities have increased over the past decade, with more than 2 deaths per day on average. Workzonesafty dot org DATA 
• Speeding and rear-end collisions are among the most common causes. Federal Highway Admin DATA
• The majority of those killed are drivers and passengers… not road construction workers NSC DATA

Common Causes of Work Zone Auto Accidents

Construction zones demand heightened alertness, yet many crashes are caused by avoidable behaviors:

• Distracted driving (phones, Map Apps/GPS, passengers)
• Speeding in reduced speed areas
• Sudden lane changes and confusion
• Following too closely (rear end collisions)
• Ignoring signage and flaggers

When traffic patterns change daily, as they often do in active road construction projects like the currently underway Bluff Street improvements, even familiar St. George roads can become unpredictable. Drivers on "normal" roads here in St. George can be unpredictable enough already. Needless to say, applying your eye makeup or scarfing down a hoagie while driving through a road construction zone probably isn't the best idea but, common sense isn't always along for the ride.

Local Impact: Why This Matters in St. George

With the rapid population growth and increased traffic here in Washington County, construction projects are becoming larger and more frequent.
UDOT has strongly emphasized that drivers must “slow down and stay safe in work zones” as projects expand statewide. UDOT New and Ongoing construction  

For us St. George residents, that means:

• Heavier congestion
• More lane closures and detours
• Increased interaction with construction crews and equipment
• Potential road hazards like: Uneven lanes, steel trench plates, loose gravel, and other construction debris

All of which raise the likelihood of serious accidents if drivers are not using extra caution.

What Happens If You’re Injured in a Car Accident, while in a Construction Zone?

Accidents in construction zones can be more complex than typical crashes.
Liability may involve:

• Another negligent driver
• Construction companies or contractors
• Government entities responsible for road design or signage
• Equipment operators or third parties

Determining fault requires thorough investigation and legal experience, especially when multiple parties are involved.

Injured in an Auto Accident in a Work Zone? Take Action

If you or a loved one has been injured in a road construction zone auto accident, you don’t have to navigate it alone.
At Bangerter Frazier Group, we help clients:

• Investigate accident causes
• Identify all responsible parties
• Handle insurance companies
• Pursue full compensation for injuries and damages

Don’t wait. Construction zone auto accident cases can involve time sensitive evidence.

Contact Bangerter Frazier Group today for a free consultation.
 Let our team of experienced and compassionate attorneys help you protect your rights and get the compensation you deserve.

Final Thought: Slow Down Today, Stay Safe Tomorrow

Construction zones are temporary… but the consequences of a crash can last a lifetime.
As the Bluff Street and other St. George road construction projects move forward, remember to :
Slow Down. Keep Alert, Leave Room.