A tragic construction zone accident claimed the life of a worker on the morning of July 25, 2025, along the Atlantic City Expressway in Winslow Township, New Jersey. The incident involved an attenuator truck and occurred during active roadway operations in the eastbound lanes.
The crash took place at approximately 7:00 a.m. near milepost 36.5 in an active highway work zone. According to investigators, the driver of an attenuator truck was in the process of backing up to retrieve cones from a shoulder lane closure. Unbeknownst to the driver, a construction worker was directly behind the vehicle.
The worker was struck by the reversing truck and sustained fatal injuries at the scene. The victim has been identified him as Dominick Tarsitano, a 31-year-old man from Egg Harbor Township.
Construction Zone Hazards and Risk Factors
Construction zones on highways pose serious risks to both workers and passing motorists. Even with safety equipment like attenuator trucks—which are specifically designed to absorb impact and protect roadside crews—accidents can still occur when proper precautions are not followed.
Common causes of serious or fatal construction site incidents include:
- Inadequate communication during vehicle maneuvers
- Limited visibility behind large vehicles
- Lack of spotters or ground guides during backing operations
- Failure to follow established safety protocols
Backover incidents like this are particularly dangerous because the worker often has little time to react, and the driver may have no clear line of sight.
Legal Options Following a Fatal Construction Accident
When a worker is killed in a construction zone, their family may be entitled to benefits under workers’ compensation laws. However, in some cases, additional legal claims may exist—particularly if a third party (such as a contractor, subcontractor, or equipment operator) was negligent.
Families may also have grounds to pursue a wrongful death claim to seek compensation for:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Lost future income and support
- Emotional suffering and loss of companionship
An attorney experienced in personal injury and workplace fatalities can help evaluate all possible avenues for recovery, including whether site safety procedures were properly enforced.
Legal Support for Grieving Families
Construction workers face significant dangers on the job, particularly in active traffic zones. When a preventable accident leads to the loss of life, families deserve answers and legal guidance. Speaking with a construction accident lawyer early can help protect your rights.
If someone you love was killed in a highway construction zone, the Spagnoletti Law Firm can investigate the incident and help determine whether additional claims can be pursued. Call 713-804-9306 to speak with a construction accident attorney about your options.