Each year, thousands of roadside construction-related deaths occur, among construction workers and motorists, and these deaths are on the rise. Sadly, even though work zones carry ample warning signs showing significantly lower speeds, bright orange cones to keep drivers inside narrow lanes, and important electronic warnings, many motorists still fail to pay close enough attention or slow down enough to increase awareness.
In order to combat the increase in construction zone deaths, many states have devoted tax dollars to public service announcements delivering admonishing drivers to keep speeds low and maintain a heightened awareness in construction areas. It is anticipated that the recent spike in construction zone deaths will begin to decrease as the PSA's reach communities nationwide. Some of the guidelines to roadside safety that states have included in these public safety announcements include the following:
1.
Carefully observe all warning signs within work zones.2. Maintain a safe distance between your car and those around and in front of you (most accidents are rear collisions).
3. Show extra caution when driving in active work zones at night.
4. Pay close attention to the flaggers directing traffic.
5. As possible, merge at the first indication of lane closures.
6. Avoid all possible distractions when driving, including eating, drinking, and talking on the phone.
Both local and federal government officials maintain that following these guidelines will decrease the number of construction zone deaths throughout the country. In addition, motorists are given incentives to show extra caution in these areas, as fines can be as high as 0.