Protecting yourself and passengers in work zones
April is Work Zone Awareness Month
For Immediate Release: April 10, 2017
Contact: Public Affairs Division
24-hour Media Line: 601-359-9777
MDOT News Releases: http://ow.ly/MBEPB
JACKSON, MISS.- The Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) joins the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO), American Traffic Safety Services Association (ATSSA) and State DOTs to bring awareness to work zone safety among crew members and drivers in April.
“Work zone safety not only includes the safety of workers, it includes the safety of drivers," said MDOT Executive Director Melinda McGrath. "Many people do not realize the alarming number of fatalities among drivers within work zones. Nationwide,the majority of work zone related fatalities are motorists and their passengers. The safety of the traveling public as well as the safety of our workers is a top priority for MDOT.”
In 2015, there were five fatalities in Mississippi work zones; all of which were drivers or their passengers. Work zones create a different pattern from normal traffic flow to allow crew members to work in a safe environment. Due to the change in traffic flow, it is critical drivers pay extra attention when navigating through work zones.
Distracted driving is a common factor in work zone related crashes, including texting or using a cell phone, eating and drinking. There are three main types of distracted driving: visual, manual and cognitive.
Visual distractions includes anything that takes eyes away from the road. Manual distractions cause drivers to remove their hands from the wheel. Cognitive distractions divert the driver’s attention and thoughts away from the road.
Other factors in work zone related crashes include speeding or failing to follow the necessary adaptations in traffic patterns. Work zones are clearly marked to provide a warning to drivers that there is change in traffic flow ahead.
“By following advanced warning signs, driving the posted speed limit and limiting distractions, drivers can ensure that everyone makes it home to their family at the end of every day,” McGrath said.
Follow these tips to drive smart in Mississippi work zones to keep yourself, your family and highway workers safe.
- Stay alert! Look for reduced speed limits, narrow driving lanes and highway workers.
- Pay attention. Work zone signs will tell you exactly what to expect ahead.
- Merge early. If drivers merge as soon as they see the signs, traffic will flow more smoothly.
- Slow down. If you’re speeding, you may encounter slowed or stopped traffic within seconds.
- Don’t tailgate. Maintain a safe distance on all sides of your vehicle.
- Plan ahead. Expect delays and allow extra travel time. Select an alternate route if you are running late.
- Slow down when approaching a work zone at night. Visibility can be difficult due to the glare of oncoming headlights. Slowing down and proceeding with caution will allow for everyone to stay safe.
For more information on how to drive smart in work zones, visit GoMDOT.com/drivesmartms and visit the online fallen worker memorial. Join the conversation by using #drivesmartms and following or liking @MississippiDOT on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube and Snapchat.
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The Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) is responsible for providing a safe intermodal transportation network that is planned, designed, constructed and maintained in an effective, cost-efficient and environmentally sensitive manner. MDOT’s objective is to maximize taxpayer’s dollars by providing a safe, efficient multimodal network that enhances economic stability and growth. For more information, visit GoMDOT.com.