Work Zone Safety: Why Your Driving Habits Matter More Than You Think

Every year, work zones and construction sites are always a hot spot for motor vehicle and personal injury accidents across the nation. Some of the biggest contributors to work zone crashes (especially fatal ones) are distracted driving, speeding, and not using seatbelts .

In fact, according to the Missouri Department of Transportation, in 2022 in Missouri:

• 411 work zone crashes were at least partially caused by distracted driving;
• 13% of work zone crashes involved speeding;
• 71% of the vehicle occupants killed in work zone crashes were not wearing their seat belts.

Impaired driving is also involved in many roadside work zone crashes. Tragically, many of these accidents lead to fatalities, like what happened in the tragic October 2022 case of an alleged drunk driver killing a KC highway worker in a hit-and-run accident.

Despite their cause, work zone accidents pose a danger to anyone on or around the road. Drivers, passengers, pedestrians, bicyclists, workers, highway patrol persons — all of these individuals share the heightened risk of travelling by road and through construction.

Be A Responsible Driver!

As drivers, our driving habits really do matter and can mean the difference between life and death. So, whenever you’re on the road, always be a responsible driver and follow these 10 safety practices to help reduce your — and fellow travelers’ risk — of being in a work zone crash:

1. STAY ALERT: Be aware of changing road conditions, such as uneven pavement or detours.
2. SLOW DOWN: Reduce your speed and be prepared to slow down even further if necessary.
3. PAY ATTENTION: Keep your focus on the road and avoid distractions such as texting or using a mobile phone.
4. FOLLOW SIGNS & SIGNALS: Obey all signs and signals in and around work zones, including speed limits and lane closures.
5. HAVE PATIENCE: Expect delays and plan your route accordingly, leaving plenty of time to reach your destination.
6. MERGE EARLY: Merge into the correct lane well before reaching the lane closure (if you can).
7. KEEP A SAFE DISTANCE: Maintain a safe following distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you.
8. WATCH OUT FOR WORKERS & PEDESTRIANS: Be aware of construction workers and equipment, and watch for flaggers who may be directing traffic.
9. AVOID SUDDEN MOVEMENTS: Try and avoid sudden lane changes or turns, and always use your turn signals to signal your intentions.
10. EXPECT THE UNEXPECTED: Have patience and be prepared for anything to happen while driving through a work zone.

Also, don’t forget to check for the latest road closures, slow-downs, and other traffic-impacting work projects ( before you get behind the wheel, of course):

National Work Zone Awareness Week

To join the nationwide effort of bringing attention to and educating about work place safety, we will once again observe and promote National Work Zone Awareness Week this April 2023. We strongly encourage all drivers to use this awareness week to practice safer driving habits and set a good example for other commuters on the roadways. Always remember: Drive Safe and Arrive Alive!

Read more about work zone and driver safety:

• Teen Driving Awareness – Safety Tips for New Teen Drivers & Parents
• MoDOT raises awareness on work zone dangers
• TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS AND FATALITIES ARE ON A RISE IN 2021 IN MISSOURI

Injured in an accident caused by someone else? Our Missouri legal team at Northland Injury Law is here to help! Text “HURT” to 22222 or call 816-327-7627 today for a FREE personal injury consultation with our top-rated, highly experienced attorneys.

Follow Us on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for more personal injury law content!