In early 2026, the Orange County Transportation Authority and California Department of Transportation officially broke ground on the I-5 Improvement Project that runs from Irvine through Tustin. New construction can relieve congestion, but it can also create conditions that lead to collisions. If you were injured near this area, understanding construction zone accidents in Tustin and Irvine is key to finding the right path for compensation.

Why Are Construction Zones on I-5 More Dangerous for Drivers?

Construction projects often require temporary shifts in the location of lanes, temporary barriers, narrowed travel lanes, reduced speed limits, and other changes that require drivers to be extra cautious. Drivers along I-5 and elsewhere in the state may encounter sudden slowdowns, merging traffic, construction equipment, and other hazards. Remaining alert is crucial for preventing collisions.

The I-5 Improvement Project is a $716 million OCTA and Caltrans initiative that will improve nearly nine miles of Interstate 5 between I-405 and SR-55. The project will add new lanes, improve interchanges, and enhance safety for motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians along one of Orange County’s busiest transportation corridors. Anyone who suffers a personal injury during the construction phase may be eligible for compensation through an injury claim.

Who Is Liable for a Construction Zone Accident in California?

Over the past decade, nearly 40,000 people have died, and roughly 2 million others have been injured in car collisions across the state. In the aftermath of a collision, an investigation may explore which party or parties are responsible for causing the collision. In some cases, an individual driver may be liable for causing the wreck.

In 2024, 315,167 people were injured in car collisions, for example, and a wreck can result from someone’s failure to pay attention to the road. An investigation could also find that construction crews or construction vehicle operators caused or contributed to the collision. In California, multiple parties can share liability, and anyone pursuing compensation in shared fault cases would have their settlement reduced by their percentage of fault.

Steps to Take Following a Crash in an I-5 Construction Zone

If you are involved in a crash in an I-5 construction zone, prioritize your safety by moving to a secure location if possible and calling 911. Seek medical attention promptly, even if your injuries appear minor. Exchange information with the other driver and photograph the vehicles, construction signs, lane closures, traffic control devices, road conditions, and any nearby construction equipment before the scene changes.

Because evidence in active work zones can disappear quickly, preserving it is critical. An experienced attorney can investigate the collision, determine liability, and pursue compensation for your injuries and financial losses.

Why You Should Hire a Construction Accident Lawyer

A 2025 California Office of Traffic Safety Public Opinion Survey found that 71.4% of Californians identified texting while driving as one of their top traffic safety concerns and that distracted driving is only one type of driver negligence that can lead to compensation. Whether your injury was caused by a distracted driver, a drunk driver, or another cause, the decision to hire a construction accident lawyer should be your top priority.

A car accident attorney can manage your car accident case with a focus on securing the compensation that you are owed. Orange County car accident laws allow injured drivers and passengers to pursue compensation, but only when claimants bring evidence to back their accusations.

When you choose Easton & Easton, you gain support from a family-owned injury law firm that is trusted by local physicians and attorneys who refer our services to their own clients. One in three settlements we secure is over $100,000, although past results do not guarantee future outcomes.*

Testimonials and Past Settlements

The relationships we build with our clients are among our greatest accomplishments. Easton & Easton is honored to maintain a 4.8-star average rating, and the following reviews reflect the confidence our clients have placed in our team.**

“Working with Easton & Easton after my car accident was one of the best decisions I made. Attorney William Seidlitz was phenomenal — he was patient, knowledgeable, and always available to answer my questions and ease my concerns. He handled all the complicated legal details so I could focus on healing, and he pushed relentlessly to get me the maximum compensation possible.” — Blake V.

“My husband and I had a wonderful experience with Easton & Easton after we were injured in a car accident. Their team was compassionate, professional, and kept us informed throughout the entire process. They truly took great care of us and made a difficult situation much less stressful. We highly recommend Easton & Easton to anyone looking for a personal injury attorney who genuinely cares about their clients.” — Amanda D.

“Easton and Easton group was very helpful and supportive during my case. They were very accommodating and got things done. I never felt that I was overlooked. I always got the feeling that they would get things done for me and my case. I had all positive thoughts and feelings about Easton and Easton.” — Ricardo M.

At Easton & Easton, every case is prepared with meticulous attention to detail and a focus on securing the most favorable outcome possible for our clients. The firm has recovered more than $2 billion for injured victims and their families, and the representative results below demonstrate the breadth of its personal injury experience.*

  • $7,000,000 — An intoxicated college student fell two stories after sneaking onto an auditorium roof.
  • $1,500,000 — This was secured for the negligent maintenance of a bicycle.
  • $985,679.36 — A slip-and-fall incident at a grocery store resulted in a binding arbitration award.
  • $305,000 — This was secured for an automobile accident with a brachial plexus injury.

FAQs

Q: What Are Common Types of Crashes in a Highway Construction Zone?

A: Rear-end collisions are common in highway construction zones. The changing environment can lead to sudden slowdowns. If drivers are not paying close attention to the road, they could hit the driver in front of them. Lane closures, merging vehicles, and other potential hazards can leave motorists with little time to react when other drivers are not paying careful attention to the road.

Q: What Are California’s Laws for Driving Through Construction Zones?

A: Speeding through a construction zone can lead to serious penalties. When workers are present, fines can drastically increase. When someone violates traffic laws, they can leave themselves liable for any collisions that result from their negligence. Although construction zones can be more hazardous, drivers are still expected to exercise extra caution by maintaining a safe speed and distance from other drivers.

Q: Who Is Liable for a Construction Zone Car Accident?

A: The party or parties that cause or contribute to a collision can be held liable after a crash. This could include a single driver, construction crews, cement truck operators, and even the individuals overseeing the construction project. In the aftermath of a collision, accusations do not matter as much as evidence, and a careful review of the evidence can determine who is at fault for a crash and what they owe.

Q: What Should I Do After a Crash in an I-5 Construction Zone?

A: After a crash in an I-5 construction zone, you should focus on your safety and recovery. Report the collision by calling 911, and try to wait for medics somewhere that is safely away from moving traffic. Allow paramedics to check you for injuries that you may not be aware of, and seek urgent medical attention when warranted. Follow your doctor’s recovery guidelines. Then, seek legal support as soon as possible.

Injured at a California Construction Zone? Contact Easton & Easton Today

Construction zones along the I-5 can create changing traffic patterns, reduced visibility, and unexpected hazards that increase the risk of serious collisions. If you were injured in a construction zone accident, the experienced trial lawyers at Easton & Easton can investigate the crash, preserve critical evidence, and identify every potentially liable party.

Our attorneys have recovered more than $2 billion for clients through skilled negotiation and strategic litigation. We understand the financial disruptions that can happen to working professionals and their families after a personal injury. Contact our office today to schedule your initial consultation, so we can help you reclaim what was taken from you by a negligent driver.

* Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Results depend on the facts of each case; each case is different.

**Client testimonials reflect individual experiences and do not guarantee a similar outcome.