Letter to the editor: Motorists can help keep road workers safe
In 2020, 857 people were killed and 44,240 people were injured in work zone crashes, according to the National Safety Council. The number of lives impacted by these incidents demonstrates the need for safer work zones.
In honor of National Work Zone Awareness Week April 17-21, which encourages community members to use extra caution while navigating work zones, I would like to reinforce the role motorists play in keeping themselves and traffic control professionals safe and offer tips individuals can implement when they encounter work zones.
• Avoid distractions: Whether it’s using cellphones, changing music, eating or talking to passengers, any action that takes motorists’ attention away from the road is dangerous and can cause them to miss the warning signs for an approaching work zone.
• Slow down: In 2020, 37% of fatal work zone crashes involved a speeding vehicle, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Association. When motorists exceed the posted speed limit in a work zone, they are putting themselves and traffic control professionals at risk.
• Don’t drive drowsy or impaired: Drowsy drivers or those under the influence may react slower to traffic control professionals’ signals and roadway changes, posing significant risks.
As we strive to raise awareness of work zone safety, we reflect on all the lives that have been tragically lost in work zone accidents this year. Let’s work together to create safer roadways and get everyone home safely each day.
Luke Lazar
New Kensington
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