In 2020, 857 people were killed and 44,000 were injured in work zone crashes.

Engineers and planners design and operate work zones with safety in mind. Construction workers follow specific safety guidelines to avoid accidents and injuries in work zones. However, their safety is also dependent on drivers and pedestrians obeying traffic laws in work zones.

The following tips can help drivers successfully navigate work zones.

Prepare Mentally to Drive in a Work Zone

Expect the Unexpected
Normal speed limits may be reduced, traffic lanes may be changed, and people may be working on or near the road.
Expect Delays
Schedule enough time to drive safely and check radio, television and web sites for traffic information.
Be Patient and Stay Calm
Work zone crew members are working to improve the road and make your future drive better.
Stay Alert and Minimize Distractions
Dedicate your full attention to the roadway and avoid any distractions.

How to Drive Safely in a Work Zone

Slow Down
Speeding is one of the major causes of work zone crashes.
Don’t Tailgate
Keep a safe distance between you and the car ahead of you. The most common crash in a highway work zone is the rear end collision.
Keep your Distance
Keep a safe distance between your vehicle and the construction workers and their equipment.
Pay Attention to the Signs
Warning signs are there to help you and other drivers move safely through the work zone. Observe the posted signs until you see the one that says you’ve left the work zone.
Obey Road Crew Flaggers
The flagger knows what is best for moving traffic safely in the work zone. A flagger has the same authority as a regulatory sign, so you can be cited for disobeying his or her directions.

Learn more about different aspects of roadway safety: https://safety.fhwa.dot.gov/