A tragic accident on the West Virginia Turnpike claimed the life of a construction worker on April 14, 2025 as a tractor-trailer entered an active work zone and fatally struck the worker performing asphalt maintenance. The incident occurred near mile marker 92.5 on the southbound side of Interstate 77 in Kanawha County, close to Marmet. The victim, an employee working on behalf of the West Virginia Turnpike, was engaged in roadway repair when the fatal collision took place around 11 a.m.
Initial reports indicate that the tractor-trailer driver was approaching the work zone when it attempted to swerve to avoid striking the area directly. However, as the truck maneuvered, the trailer portion of the vehicle entered the restricted zone and struck the worker. At the time of the crash, one lane of the southbound Turnpike was closed to accommodate roadwork, and traffic was significantly impacted.
Dangers of Roadside Work Zones
This accident highlights the inherent risks that construction workers face when operating on active roadways. Despite clear signage, barriers, and lane closures, vehicles — especially large trucks — continue to pose a significant hazard.
Several factors can contribute to these incidents, including:
- Speeding in construction zones
- Inadequate lane control or poor maneuvering at high speeds
- Poor visibility or lack of attention to signage
- Trailer swing or misjudgment of trailer clearance in tight lanes
- Road design or insufficient buffer space around workers
When drivers of commercial vehicles fail to exercise proper caution in work zones, the results can be devastating for roadside workers.
Legal Rights Following a Fatal Work Zone Accident
While the construction worker was employed by the Turnpike, liability in these cases can extend beyond basic workers’ compensation. If the crash resulted from negligence on the part of the truck driver or the trucking company, the victim’s family may be entitled to file a wrongful death claim.
Potential third-party claims may involve:
- The trucking company, if poor training, scheduling pressures, or safety violations were involved
- Equipment or maintenance providers, if mechanical failure contributed to the crash
- Logistics firms or cargo shippers, if improper loading led to trailer instability
Wrongful death claims can help families recover damages such as:
- Funeral and burial costs
- Lost future income and benefits
- Pain and suffering of surviving family members
- Loss of companionship and support
Contact Spagnoletti Law Firm
If your family has lost a loved one in a construction zone crash involving a commercial vehicle, it’s essential to seek legal guidance to understand your options. Third-party liability may exist even when workers’ compensation applies.
Spagnoletti Law Firm can assist with navigating the aftermath of fatal roadway incidents and can help determine whether you have grounds for a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit.
For a free consultation with our construction accident lawyers call 713-804-9306. There is no fee unless we recover compensation on your behalf.