Roadway Work Zone Safety
In 2005 there were 1,074 people killed and 37,653 people injured in work zone crashes.
Compared to 2004, work zone fatalities increased 1% and injuries decreased 21%.
Of the 1,074 people killed in work zones, 872 were in construction zones, 98 were
in maintenance zones, 17 were in utility zones, and 87 were in an unknown type of
work zone.
We all are responsible for driving, walking, and biking, safely through work zones.
The engineers and planners have the responsibility to make sure the work zone is
designed and operating properly -- with safety in mind. Drivers and pedestrians
have the responsibility to always be alert and obey the traffic laws. The police
and the courts have the responsibility to make sure that the traffic and work zone
laws are enforced. Public safety agencies have the responsibility of responding
to and securing crash locations and enforcing traffic laws. Local communities and
county and state governments need to allocate funding for safe roads and increase
public awareness about work zone safety. Everyone should take responsibility for
work zone safety.
Tips for driving safely in work zones
- Expect the unexpected -- Normal speed limits may be reduced, traffic lanes
may be changed, and people may be working on or near the road.
- Slow down -- Speeding is one of the major causes of work zone crashes.
- Don't tailgate -- Keep a safe distance between you and the car ahead of you.
The most common crash in a highway work zone is the rear end collision.
- Keep your distance -- Keep a safe distance between your vehicle and the construction
workers and their equipment.
- Pay attention to the signs -- The warning signs are there to help you and
other drivers move safely through the work zone. Observe the posted signs until
you see the one that says you've left the work zone.
- Obey road crew flaggers -- The flagger knows what is best for moving traffic
safely in the work zone. A flagger has the same authority as a regulatory sign,
so you can be cited for disobeying his or her directions.
- Stay alert and minimize distractions -- Dedicate your full attention to the
roadway and avoid changing radio stations or using cell phones while driving.
- Keep up with the traffic flow -- Motorists can help maintain traffic flow
and posted speeds by merging as soon as possible. Don't drive right up to the lane
closure and then try to barge in.
- Expect delays -- Schedule enough time to drive safely and check radio, tv
and web sites for traffic information.
- Be patient and stay calm -- The work zone crew members are working to improve
the road and make your future drive better.
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