Every day, millions of drivers navigate through work zones marked by orange cones, barricades, and caution signs on highways and roads nationwide. These zones, where maintenance and construction workers labor to maintain infrastructure, pose significant risks to both workers and passing commuters. In 2022, 891 people died in work zones, with 742 being drivers and passengers. National Work Zone Safety Awareness Week (NWZAW), observed annually in April, highlights the importance of caution, and commemorates those who have lost their lives in work zone incidents.

As we mark NWZAW, it's crucial to address key factors contributing to work zone accidents. Distracted driving, speeding, and failure to follow posted signs are leading causes of work zone accidents. Motorists must remain vigilant, minimize distractions, and obey speed limits and traffic instructions in work zones.

Ensuring work zone safety is everyone’s responsibility and can be achieved through proper training, equipment for workers, and cooperation from motorists and people that roll and walk. Simple actions like slowing down, maintaining distance, and avoiding distractions can protect those who work in these dangerous zones.

Let's reaffirm our commitment to protecting those who build and maintain our roads. Make sure you’re following us on Instagram and Facebook as we step into National Work Zone Safety Awareness Week 2024 starting on Monday, April 15 for more updates on how to keep everyone safe.

For more information on work zone safety, please visit, WorkZoneSafety.org.