Officials urge watchfulness in work zones

In recognition of National Work Zone Awareness Week, April 9-13, Texas Department of Transportation said motorists should be careful every day, especially when driving through work zones.

In 2017, work zone fatalities in Texas increased 9 percent over the previous year, resulting in 199 deaths and 813 serious injuries. Only 4 percent of those who died were road crew workers; 96 percent were motorists, pedestrians and bicyclists.

“We always urge drivers to exercise great caution and obey traffic laws, especially in work zones,” TxDOT Executive Director James Bass said. “Doing so helps ensure everyone— motorists and work crews—gets home safely to their loved ones.”

A growing population in the state can translate into more than 2,500 active TxDOT work zones at any given time.

“The leading causes of statewide work zone crashes—speeding and driver inattention—are entirely preventable,” said Marcus Sandifer, TxDOT Atlanta District spokesman.

Fines double in work zones, up to $2,000, when workers are present.

“Roadside crews often work only a few feet from fast-moving traffic,” Bass said. “Driver vigilance is paramount to ensuring the safety of everyone in the work zone. We urge anyone driving through a work zone to minimize distractions, give their full attention to the road and be prepared to slow down or stop on short notice.”

As part of its ongoing awareness campaign, TxDOT also reminds drivers of the Move Over/Slow Down law, which requires drivers to move over or slow down when approaching TxDOT crews, law enforcement, emergency vehicles or tow trucks stopped on the side or shoulder of the road with flashing blue or amber lights. Violations can result in fines up to $2,000.

“The leading causes of statewide work zone crashes—speeding and driver inattention—are entirely preventable.”

—Marcus Sandifer, TxDOT Atlanta District spokesman