Public-safety department urges caution in work zones
YOUNGSTOWN -- According to Ohio Department of Public Safety statistics, 6,389 crashes occurred in work zones in Ohio in 2004.
Of that total, 14 involved fatalities and 1,522 resulted in injuries. Drivers are being strongly urged to have patience and slow down when driving through work zones.
"Drivers must drive cautiously through work zones. It is not only their lives at stake but that of the construction workers also," said Mahoning Safe Communities Coordinator, Susan Viars.
The Federal Highway Administration also offers the following "Safety Tips to Live By":
Stay alert and give full attention to the roadway.
Pay close attention to signs and work-zone flaggers.
Turn on headlights so workers and other drivers can see your vehicle.
Do not tailgate.
Do not speed. Slow down to the posted limits.
Keep up with traffic flow.
Do not change lanes in work zones.
Minimize distractions in vehicles. Avoid changing radio stations and using mobile phones.
Expect the unexpected. Keep an eye on workers and their equipment.
Be patient. Remember, work zones are necessary to improve roads and make them safer.
"Drivers view work zones as a nuisance, but the repairs are very necessary in building safer roads to save lives," said Viars.
The Safe Communities program was developed through the Ohio Department of Public Safety.