Work zone injuries to drivers and workers occur with tragic frequency and consequences.
The U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration has reported that in a five year period:
• 4,400 persons died, 85% of which was the driver or passenger
• 200,000 persons were injured
• Rear-end crashes are the most common type of work zone crash
• The majority of fatal work crashes occurred on roads with speed limits greater than 50 mph
More than 20,000 workers are injured in road construction work zones each year. Most fatalities occur during the day.
Drivers need to avoid distractions, slow down, watch for signs, and brake lights, change lanes safely, follow instructions from flaggers, keep a safe distance between their vehicle and the construction workers and equipment, and expect the unexpected.