The Alabama Department of Transportation and states around the nation are joining together to ask drivers to slow down and eliminate distractions in work zones. National Work Zone Awareness Week takes place April 15-19.
The theme for this year’s National Work Zone Awareness Week is, “Work Zones are temporary. Actions behind the wheel can last forever.”
ALDOT hosts Capitol Kick-off Event
On Tuesday, April 9, ALDOT hosted a kick-off event at the Alabama State Capitol Building. ALDOT was joined by other safety partners including members of the Alabama legislature, the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, Alabama Associated General Contractors and the Alabama Road Builders Association to bring awareness to the importance of driving safely in all work zones.
In 2023, there were 1,777 work zone crashes in Alabama resulting in 25 fatalities and 498 injuries. Most people killed in work zones were motorists and passengers. However, when workers are present, workers are the most vulnerable to injury and death.
ALDOT’s Drive Safe Alabama coordinator, Allison Green says “Tragic loss of life that happens each year in work zones can be avoided, just move over and slow down, so that those working along the roadway and you, and your passengers can all get home safely.”
Tips to keep you safe
During the spring and summer, motorists will see more construction and work zones on Alabama’s highways and interstates. ALDOT offers these tips for driving safely in work zones:
- Be alert. It is incredibly dangerous when your eyes come off the road, especially in work zones. Eliminate distractions and look for highway workers, reduced speed limits and narrow driving lanes.
- Slow down. Don’t drive over the posted speed limit through work zones and keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you.
- Don’t tailgate. Maintain a safe distance on all sides of your vehicle, so that you don’t clip a nearby vehicle.
In recognition of this national campaign, Gov. Kay Ivey has issued a proclamation naming April 15 – 19, 2024 as Work Zone Awareness Week in the state of Alabama.
For more information on National Work Zone Awareness Week, visit NWZAW.org.
