Case Study: Subcontractor Inadequate Traffic Control Leads to Work Zone Accidents in Georgia (2018)

Project Overview
• Name: I-285 Widening Project
• Location: Atlanta, Georgia
• Year: 2018
• Project Size: $275 million
• Scope: Highway widening with complex traffic management
• Lead Agencies/Contractors: Georgia DOT /

Category of the Issue, Problem, or Challenge
• Subcontractor Management
• Traffic Safety & Control

Summary of the Issue, Problem, or Challenge
The traffic control subcontractor failed to properly implement and maintain work zone safety barriers and signage, leading to several vehicle collisions and near-misses in the construction zone.

Root Cause Analysis

• Subcontractor’s inadequate training on current traffic safety standards.
• Failure to promptly repair or reposition safety devices after damage.
• Lack of adequate supervision and periodic inspection of the traffic control setup.
• Poor communication between subcontractor and prime contractor on safety issues.

Impacts Due to the Issue, Problem, or Challenge

• Multiple accidents resulting in minor injuries and vehicle damage.
• Temporary work stoppages to reassess traffic control plans.
• Increased scrutiny and regulatory inspections.
• Costly repairs and adjustments to traffic control measures.

Corrective Actions Taken

1. Subcontractor enhanced traffic safety training and certifications.
2. Increased frequency of inspections and rapid response teams for traffic control fixes.
3. Established daily communication briefings between subcontractor and prime contractor safety teams.
4. Adopted technology for real-time monitoring of traffic control devices.

Lessons Learned

• Proper traffic control is essential to prevent accidents in active work zones.
• Continuous monitoring and quick response are necessary to maintain safety.
• Strong collaboration between prime and subcontractors improves traffic management outcomes.

Audit & Prevention: Project Control Questions to Ask on Future Projects to Help Control the Situation

• Are subcontractor staff certified in traffic control safety?
• How often are traffic control setups inspected?
• Are communication protocols for traffic safety well established?