It's Work Zone Season

Source: J. J. Keller & Associates, Inc.
With a more than 55 percent increase in work zone fatalities between 1997 and 2001, Transportation Secretary Norman Mineta urges motorists to exercise greater caution and drive safely through work zones.

Mineta said, "We can improve safety for motorists, pedestrians, and construction workers by exercising caution and following good safety practices in highway work zones."

In 2001, the latest year for which this information is available, 1,079 people were killed in work zone-related crashes. Four out of five of them were motorists. In addition, more than 40,000 people are injured in work zones each year.

"Repairs and improvements are needed on our nation's streets and highways to enhance safety and mobility," Federal Highway Administrator (FHWA) Mary Peters said. "Each year, too many people are killed in work zone crashes."

The FHWA and others offer the following safety tips:

  • Stay alert and give full attention to the roadway.
  • Pay close attention to signs and work zone flaggers.
  • Turn on headlights so workers and other drivers can see your vehicle.
  • Do not tailgate. Increase your following distance.
  • Do not speed. Slow down to the posted speed limits.
  • Keep up with the traffic.
  • Do not change lanes in work zones. Move to the required lane well ahead of time.
  • Be cautious of other speeding cars.
  • Minimize distractions in vehicles—avoid changing radio stations and using mobile phones in work zones.
  • Expect the unexpected, and keep an eye on workers and their equipment.
  • Be aware of narrow lanes without a shoulder.
  • Be ready for rough roadways that can affect your driving.
  • Report missing or poor signage to your road department.
  • Be patient.
Additional information about work zone safety is available by clicking on Work Zone Awareness Week at www.fhwa.dot.gov/ and by logging on to www.truckline.com/insideata/press/040303workzones.html.

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