Torrance has seen a rise in city-led construction projects, infrastructure improvements, and road maintenance in 2025. From resurfacing projects on Crenshaw Boulevard to lane reductions near Del Amo Fashion Center, these temporary changes may cause confusion, traffic buildup, and unfortunately—car accidents.
When construction zones create tighter spaces, sudden merges, blocked sightlines, and inconsistent signage, the risk of collisions rises. And when crashes do happen near roadworks, figuring out who’s responsible becomes a little more complicated.
This article covers what you need to know if you’re involved in a car crash near a construction site or closed lane in Torrance—including legal options, fault questions, and how a vehicle collision lawyer in Torrance can help.
Table of Contents
Why Road Projects Increase Crash Risk
Torrance city officials regularly release updates on public works and lane closures, many of which are necessary to improve safety or infrastructure. However, during these transitions, drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians face unexpected changes to familiar routes.
Some contributing factors to crashes during cityworks include:
Even a cautious driver can make a mistake under these conditions, especially when the road changes every few days as the project progresses.
Common Types of Construction Zone Accidents
Car crashes during roadwork can happen in a variety of ways, each raising unique legal questions. Here are a few examples:
1. Rear-End Collisions in Narrow Lanes
As lanes narrow and speeds slow, tailgating or distracted drivers may not stop in time. A rear-end crash in a construction area can lead to serious whiplash injuries or multi-car pileups.
2. Side-Swipe Accidents from Sudden Merges
When multiple lanes are squeezed into one without much warning, side-swipe accidents become more likely. Construction areas with missing or unclear signage make it even harder to merge safely.
3. Hitting or Being Hit by a Construction Vehicle
Heavy equipment may enter the roadway without clear signals. If a dump truck or utility vehicle reverses unexpectedly, it can cause serious damage and injuries.
4. Pedestrian or Cyclist Collisions
Cityworks may block sidewalks or bike lanes, forcing non-drivers into the street. In these cases, the margin for error shrinks drastically.
Who Is Responsible for a Crash During Cityworks?
Determining fault is not always straightforward when a crash occurs near road construction. Multiple parties may be involved:
California follows a comparative fault system, meaning each party can be assigned a percentage of responsibility. Even if you’re partially at fault, you may still be eligible for compensation, just reduced by your percentage of blame.
That’s why accident victims are strongly encouraged to consult a vehicle collision lawyer in Torrance early. These cases often require collecting traffic reports, construction logs, and photographs to understand how the crash unfolded.
Key Evidence That Helps Your Claim
If you’re involved in an accident near a construction zone or closed lane, what you gather at the scene can make a difference. Here’s what to prioritize:
These details help determine fault, timeline, and the scope of damages—especially in high-stakes cases involving serious injury or multiple vehicles.
Special Rules for Suing a Government Entity
If the City of Torrance is responsible for the accident due to poor road planning, missing signs, or dangerous detours, your legal process changes.
Under California’s Government Claims Act, you must:
Missing the deadline or failing to file correctly can bar your case entirely. This is one of the most important reasons to consult a lawyer as soon as possible after a crash near cityworks.
Final Thoughts
Road improvements are necessary for growth, but they come with risks—especially when detours and lane closures force fast decisions behind the wheel. Construction zones in Torrance have already contributed to several vehicle accidents this year, many of which could have been prevented with better planning or clearer signs.
If you or someone close to you was hurt in a crash during city construction or a traffic lane shift, don’t delay. Legal action has deadlines, especially when public agencies are involved.
A vehicle collision in Torrance can help you understand your rights, file timely claims, and hold the responsible party accountable, whether it’s another driver, a contractor, or the city itself.
You shouldn’t have to carry the burden alone. With the right support, you can recover physically, financially, and legally.
