Mary Alice Reporting-
As National Work Zone Awareness Week winds down, a joint press conference was held to highlight the importance of safe driving through work zones.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol and Ohio Department of Transportation, noted that in 2023, there were over 4,000 work zone related crashes in Ohio, and 36% occurred while workers were present. Of those crashes, nine were killed, including one contractor.
OSHP Public Information Officer Sgt. Bridget Matt says for this year, there has already been three work zone fatalities.
“The statistics are staggering but beyond them lie the human stories. There are hardworking individuals across the state that consider Ohio roadways their work place.”
Speed is a main factor with troopers, in 2023, statewide, writing over 3,700 citations for speeds more than 20 mph over the posted limit.
Sgt. Matt adds the reminder to move over and slowdown in all work zones.
“Ohio law requires that all drivers move over when approaching a vehicle with lights flashing of any color parked alongside the road. If moving over is not possible then you should slow down and proceed with caution.”
In their campaign, ODOT points out that work zones are temporary, actions behind the wheel can last forever.
So far this year, 43 ODOT crews have been struck while working along the road, compared to 56 struck in all of 2023.
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