Key Players In Indiana And Illinois Road Construction Industries
The highway and road construction industry involves a range of business types. Each contributes to the planning, construction and maintenance of transportation infrastructure. They include the following:
- General contractors: These companies oversee the construction project. They coordinate the subcontractors and ensure that the project meets specifications and deadlines.
- Civil engineering firms: These firms provide essential planning, design and consulting services to meet safety and regulatory standards.
- Environmental consultants: They guide construction projects to follow environmental regulations and help mitigate any environmental impact.
- Surveying firms: Surveyors measure and map out the construction site for accuracy in completing the project.
- Excavation and grading contractors: These companies prepare the land by moving earth, leveling surfaces and providing proper drainage before construction begins.
- Materials suppliers: These businesses provide essential materials such as asphalt, concrete, steel, gravel and other construction materials.
- Paving companies: These businesses lay the asphalt and concrete for road surfaces.
- Equipment rental companies: These supply heavy machinery and equipment for construction, such as bulldozers, excavators and cranes.
- Traffic control services: These services provide traffic management during construction, including setting up and maintaining signs, barriers, and detours for the safety of the workers and the public.
These businesses aim to collaborate to ensure smooth processes. However, when obstacles get in the way, experienced legal counsel can help.
Experienced Legal Counsel And Representation
The states’ highway construction businesses and material supply companies are subject to:
Adherence to the Regulations of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) or Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Standard Plans and Specifications, including Manuals on Uniform Traffic Control Devices, compliance with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) standards, environmental protection laws, including waste management and pollution control, and accurate reporting to avoid legal disputes.
This is not an exhaustive list. Federal and state labor laws, among others, also regulate the industry.
Noncompliance penalties are steep, and disputes are common. Dispute resolution can have many sides. Negotiation, mediation, arbitration or litigation may be necessary. An experienced lawyer can address liability, safety and compliance issues, contract disputes and worker accident claims.
Solutions Come In Many Forms
Clearly defined contract terms – upon which all parties agree – can minimize misunderstandings that lead to legal conflicts. We are attorneys who help clients with matters such as:
- Drafting clear and detailed contract terms affording risk transfer opportunities and remedies
- Providing proper documentation of project changes and delays
- Incorporating mechanisms for dispute resolution, such as mediation or arbitration
Drawing from more than 70 years of experience, we are client-focused, creative and assertive.
