Work Zone Awareness Week is an annual event that brings attention to the safety of workers and motorists in work zones across the country. Its purpose is to remind drivers to slow down and pay attention while driving through work zones. Work zones are not only dangerous for workers but also for drivers—according to the Federal Highway Administration, there were about 102,000 total crashes and 857 fatalities in work zones across the United States in 2020.
It's important to understand the risks associated with driving through work zones. Work zones are often marked by orange cones, barrels, and signs that indicate a change in traffic patterns, and drivers need to be alert and prepared for these changes. In addition, work zones often have reduced speed limits, and drivers must slow down and be patient while driving through these areas.
To ensure safety in work zones, it's important to follow some basic guidelines. Drivers should always pay attention to signs and instructions given by flaggers or other workers, follow the posted speed limit, and avoid any distractions while driving through work zones. Additionally, it's important to give workers a wide berth when passing through work zones and to never cross over barriers or enter closed lanes.
Work Zone Awareness Week is also an opportunity to recognize and thank the people who work tirelessly to keep our roads and highways safe. Our crews, traffic control team, law enforcement officers, and partners often work in dangerous conditions for the sake of improving the community.
At the end of the day, we want everyone to be able to go home to their loved ones. By following basic guidelines and being aware of the risks associated with work zones, we can help ensure the safety of everyone on the road.
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