It's Work Zone Safety Week
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April 16, 2013 |
The scene has repeated itself many times over,
in many different locations: Signs indicated an
active highway construction zone ahead. Traffic
slowed to accommodate construction workers and
equipment. Nothing prepared motorists and
workers for what happened next.
In the blink of an eye, a crash occurred, with
death and injury following.
To combat this scenario, Idaho is joining
together with other states around the country in
observance of National Work Zone Safety
Awareness Week this week, April 15-21.
Idaho had nearly 2,000 work zone crashes during
the last five years, with 138 serious injuries
and 16 fatalities.
Although some highway construction in Idaho
continued through the winter with only brief
interruptions, other projects are increasing as
the weather improves, and soon the orange
barrels will make their annual appearance.
Highway construction zones are among the most
dangerous workplaces in the country. To draw
attention to the hazard, a highway district in
Virginia introduced a modest public event 11
years ago. That humble beginning spread across
the country, eventually leading to creation of
the National Work Zone Awareness Week and a
traveling work zone memorial display.
This theme of this year’s safety campaign is,
“Roadway Work Zone Safety: We’re All in This
Together."
ITD joins transportation departments across the
country in urging drivers to slow down in
highway construction zones and to obey traffic
control measures for the safety of workers and
other motorists. Statistics indicate motorists
and their passengers are the most vulnerable to
work zone crashes, injuries and deaths.
The best strategy for avoiding
construction-related delays is to check the 511
Traveler Services website at
511.idaho.gov
before embarking on a trip. If your preferred
route includes a construction project, plan
accordingly. Leave earlier than you otherwise
would, plan for delays and be prepared to use
caution and patience.
“ITD’s highest priority is highway safety,” said
Tom Cole, ITD Chief Engineer. “We want travelers
to enjoy their trip and arrive safely at their
destination. The best way to do that is to
prepare in advance.”
In high-traffic areas, ITD attempts to schedule
construction outside peak travel times.
Construction is suspended on major holiday
weekends (Memorial Day, Fourth of July and Labor
Day), and in some cases, work is done at night.
“We do everything possible to keep people
moving,” Cole added. “But drivers must do their
part. Please, watch for work zones and slow
down. Just as important, avoid activities that
divert your attention away from the road, such
as using a cell phone.
“Help us help you stay safe. We really are all
in this together.”
For information about the work zone safety week,
go to
http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/publications/publicroads/10mar/08.cfm.
For a work zone safety public service
announcement on YouTube,
click here. |
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