DOTD observes Work Zone Awareness Week April 10, 2019

Baton Rouge, La. – Today, the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development held a press conference in observance of National Work Zone Awareness Week at its headquarters in Baton Rouge. Representatives from the Louisiana State Police, Federal Highway Administration, and the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission joined DOTD Secretary Shawn Wilson to discuss the importance of driving safely through work zones and to bring attention to worker safety.

The theme for this year’s campaign is “Work Zone Safety: Drive Like You Work Here,” which reinforces the message that a work zone is essentially the office space for those individuals working on our roadways.

“This nationwide safety campaign is one of great importance to this department. Each year, there are a high number of work zone fatalities. As we ramp up efforts across the state to build new infrastructure and repair existing ones, it is important for motorists to use extra precautions in work zones and remember that these are the offices of thousands of men and women in the construction industry,” said Secretary Wilson.

As part of Work Zone Awareness Week, a safety cone memorial has been set up in front of DOTD headquarters. This is in recognition of those who have lost their lives in work zones. Across the nation, a total of 799 lives were lost in 2017, with 11 reported in Louisiana.

“As a driver, you must use extra caution in work zones to keep yourself and others safe,” said FHWA Division Administrator Wes Bolinger.

“Across the state, Troopers work alongside DOTD representatives to ensure safe work environments as we move forward improving community and transportation infrastructures,” said Colonel Kevin Reeves, State Police Superintendent. “Louisiana State Police will continue to keep work zone safety a priority protecting the lives of both workers and motorists traveling through active construction zones.”

“Studies show that 94 percent of all vehicle crashes are caused by driver behavior, such as speeding, tailgating, drunk driving, drugged driving, drowsy driving, and distracted driving. In a work zone, lanes are narrow and construction workers and equipment are moving around, and this activity demands every driver’s full attention. Just a split-second of taking your eyes off the road can have disastrous consequences,” said LHSC Executive Director Lisa Freeman.

This year, Work Zone Awareness Week is recognized on April 8-12. DOTD will be joining transportation agencies across the country for Go Orange Day 2019 on April 10 where employees will wear orange to show their support for work zone safety.

Since 1999, the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials, the Federal Highway Administration and the American Traffic Safety Services Association have coordinated and sponsored National Work Zone Awareness Week. Those wishing to participate or follow along on social media can do so by using the hashtags #Orange4Safety and #NWZAW.

For more information about Work Zone Awareness, visit www.destinationzerodeaths.com.