State transportation departments throughout the nation are taking time out this week to emphasize the need for safer work zones on highways and roads. The theme for this year’s National Work Zone Awareness Week is, “Don’t Barrel Through Work Zones — Drive Smart to Arrive Alive.”
This is the 13th year that the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) has collaborated with the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and the American Traffic Safety Services Association (ATSSA) to sponsor the national safety awareness event.
This year, National Work Zone Awareness Week is emphasizing that drivers need to slow down, pay attention to the road, and keep an eye out for workers when driving through work zones. AASHTO’s executive director said that drivers need to keep their eyes on the road. “Texting and other distractions have become a major concern. When you’re traveling at 50 or 60 miles per hour, it only takes a couple of seconds of distraction to cause a major tragedy.”
A Florida Department of Transportation spokesperson said that in 2010, there were 69 fatalities in Florida work zones and 6,064 injuries. “These zones demand slower speeds and increased awareness of people and equipment moving in the area,” she stated.
Roadway construction zones are particularly dangerous places to work and most fatalities that occur in road construction involve a worker being struck by a piece of construction equipment or another vehicle.
Workers in road construction zones can be exposed to serious, life-threatening work-related injuries. If you or a member of your family has been injured in a construction accident and can’t work, it can be a frightening and confusing time. A Florida workers’ compensation attorney at Farah & Farah can help you understand your legal options. Call us at (800) 533-3555 for a consultation today.
