Navigating Overland Park can feel challenging with the constant road construction. While these projects promise better, safer streets for the future, they can make day-to-day traveling a hassle. If you’ve been driving through the city, you’ve likely experienced the detours, lane shifts, and delays firsthand. It’s important to know what to do if you find yourself in a difficult situation, like a car accident in a construction zone.
Related: What to Do After a Car Accident
Current Construction Projects in Overland Park
Overland Park is currently undertaking several significant road improvement projects as part of its Neighborhood Street Reconstruction Program (NSRP). These efforts aim to extend the lifespan of residential streets by up to 50 years by replacing asphalt with concrete, upgrading storm sewers, and improving sidewalks and streetlights.
Key projects currently impacting residents include:
- 2025 NSRP (Moody Hills and Southdale): This project involves a full reconstruction of streets, sidewalks, and storm drainage systems. Construction began in February and is expected to continue through October 2025.
- Quivira Road (179th to 187th): A major undertaking to construct new bridges and reconstruct the roadway, this project will continue until late fall 2026.
- College Boulevard Bridge: Construction to replace the bridge over Indian Creek will run from fall 2025 to summer 2026, adding bike and hike lanes.
Numerous other projects, including storm sewer repairs and street realignments, are also underway or scheduled to begin soon. These extensive projects often require road closures that can last for weeks or months, significantly affecting daily commutes.
For real-time information, the city provides several helpful resources:
- Street Construction Projects: Details on current and upcoming projects.
- Traffic Cameras: Live views of traffic conditions across the city.
- Neighborhood Street Reconstruction Program: Specifics on residential street projects.
How Construction Affects Traffic Flow
The primary goal of road construction is long-term improvement, but the short-term consequences often include significant traffic congestion. With major routes like Quivira Road and College Boulevard under construction, drivers are frequently rerouted, leading to increased traffic on smaller, secondary streets.
These changes can cause confusion and frustration, leading to longer travel times and unpredictable delays. The City of Overland Park attempts to manage this by providing project updates and access to live traffic cameras, but navigating the maze of orange cones and closed lanes remains a daily challenge for many.
Increased Risk of Accidents in Work Zones
Construction zones are inherently more dangerous than open roads. According to safety experts, confusing lane shifts, reduced speed limits, and the presence of heavy machinery create a hazardous environment where accidents are more likely to occur. A car accident in a construction zone can happen for many reasons, including:
- Driver Negligence: Speeding, distracted driving, and following too closely are common causes of collisions in work zones.
- Inadequate Signage: Poorly marked lane changes or insufficient warnings can lead drivers to make sudden, unsafe maneuvers.
- Improperly Placed Equipment: Construction equipment left too close to active traffic lanes can create a serious hazard.
- Poor Traffic Management: If a construction company fails to design a safe flow of traffic through the work area, it can contribute to accidents.
When a construction zone car accident occurs, determining who is at fault can be complicated. It might be another driver, the construction company, or even a government agency.
Depending on the parties involved and your circumstances, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit or a workers’ compensation claim. A construction car accident lawyer can help you navigate the complexities and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Related: The Most Dangerous Intersections in Overland Park
Contact a Lawyer if You Were Hurt in a Construction Zone Car Accident
While road improvements are necessary for our community’s growth, they shouldn’t come at the cost of your safety. If you were injured in a car accident in a construction work zone, you may feel overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next.
Our attorney at The Law Offices of Peter A. Jouras, Jr. is here to support you. As you focus on your recovery, we will handle the complexities of your car accident case.
Our founder, Peter A. Jouras, Jr., has over 25 years of experience as a car accident attorney in Kansas and Missouri. We will fight to get you the maximum compensation you deserve. We are located in Overland Park, but serve the entire Kansas City metro area, including Kansas City, Kansas, and Kansas City, Missouri.
