The numbers alone should be enough to make drivers take notice. 

In 2022, there were 891 total work-zone fatalities, according to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the U.S. Department of Transportation.

  • 742 of those were drivers/passengers 
  • 136 were pedestrian fatalities
  • 282 of the crash fatalities involved commercial vehicles

All told, there were an estimated 96,000 work zone crashes and 37,000 work zone injuries. The fact that so many of these accidents were preventable is central to the theme for National Work Zone Awareness Week (observed this year from April 21-25): “Respect the zone so we all get home.”’ 

The national observance was launched in 2000 by the Federal Highway Administration and the American Association of State Highway Transportation officials. It followed on the heels of a successful state campaign that began three years earlier in Virginia. 

Work zones can be inherently dangerous, which is why Liberty trains its workers to anticipate unsafe actions by drivers, along with how to protect themselves and others, and to establish effective temporary traffic controls. But for those efforts to succeed, drivers must do their part to “respect the zone” – and that begins with slowing down when approaching a work zone and showing patience for those working as well as other drivers. 

Whether it’s utility work or a highway project, keep yourself and others safe in work zones with these simple steps: 

  • Check the route you’ll be taking before heading out on the road. When possible, use available detours to avoid work zones. 
  • Buckle up. It’s the law, after all. 
  • Stay focused. Keep your eyes on the road and avoid distractions such as your phone, food or drink, radio, or other passengers. Keep your focus on the road, your speed, lane changes, or other important instructions in work zones. 
  • Pay attention to the signs asking you to slow down and scoot over. It’s not just an ask … again, it’s the law. 
  • When you’re approaching a lane closure, move into the open lane as soon as possible. Watch out for vehicles that may be in your blind spot. 
  • Keep your distance between your vehicle and others ahead of you. Rear-end crashes are common work-zone accidents.

Visit www.workzonesafety.org to learn more.