EDITORIAL: Be safe driving through work zones

Published 1:05 pm Monday, May 6, 2024

As the warmer weather rolls through in our area, we are beginning to see the familiar equipment on roadways that indicate road construction is taking place: orange cones, orange flags, barriers, electronic billboards and workers in the middle of the road directing traffic.

All of these things are necessary for work crews to get needed road repairs and renovations done during the short construction season of late spring, summer and early fall.

They can also be hazards to drivers and for those who work in these designated zones.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2020 Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries, there were 247 construction worker deaths caused nation that year by transportation incidents. Of those, 75 were pedestrian vehicular incidents, with 38 being caused by pedestrians being struck by vehicles in work zones.

Roadway collisions involving motorized vehicles accounted for another 142 worker deaths.

On the motorist side, on average, over 700 fatalities occur in work zones each year, according to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.

Commercial motor vehicle and passenger vehicle drivers both need to be particularly careful while traveling through work zones. Trucks and buses have limited maneuverability and large blind spots, both of which make operating in these areas more challenging for them. In fact, large trucks are disproportionately involved in work zone crashes.

We urge both road construction workers as well as motorists to pay close attention when driving through work zones this season and take steps to ensure safe travel for everyone.

Here are some tips to stay safe on roads during construction season:

Research Your Route

Before setting out on the road, research your route. When possible, avoid work zones and use any detours that are available.

Pay Attention

You should always keep your eyes on the road, but this is exceptionally important in work zones. Be aware of all signage throughout work zones that can indicate reduced speeds, lane changes and other important information. Avoid distractions such as your cellphone, eating, drinking, the radio, GPS and conversing with other passengers.

Slow Down

Lane closures, traffic pattern shifts and reduced speeds are common in work zones. Make sure to slow down when entering a work zone and keep an eye out for road workers.

Move Into The Open Lane

When approaching lane closures, move into the open lane as soon as possible. Be sure to pay close attention to vehicles around you that could be in your blind spot.

Keep Your Distance

Rear-end crashes are extremely common in work zones – maintain extra space between your vehicle and the one in front of you at all times.

Stay alert in work zones

Driving through work zones brings a lot of additional challenges. Discover insights to navigate work zones during your commute.

Motorists are also reminded to slow down and move over whenever they see law enforcement conducting a traffic stop on the side of a roadway or highway. This ensures safety for the driver, the officer and those who are being pulled over.

For more information on work zone safety visit workzonesafety.org.