This, from the DOT, and we might read betwixt the lines:

TAMPA – From April 2 to 8, the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) will celebrate National Work Zone Awareness week by continuing its year-long campaign, “Work Zone Safety. It’s Everyone’s Job.”

The goal of the campaign is to reduce crashes, injuries and fatalities in highway work zones.

“We want Floridians to realize that everyone has a hand in work zone safety, not only during this commemorative week, but every time they use the roadways.” said FDOT Assistant Secretary Kevin Thibault, the Governor’s Highway Safety Representative. “It truly is everyone’s job to ensure safe travels through highway construction zones.”

In 2004, the most recent traffic crash data for Florida, 120 fatalities occurred in 3,698 crashes in highway work zones. Although highway construction remains one of the most dangerous jobs in America, nine out of ten persons killed in highway work zones in Florida are motorists or pedestrians.

FDOT is joined by the Florida Highway Patrol, the Federal Highway Administration, the American Traffic Safety Services Association, the Florida Sheriff’s Association, the Florida Police Chiefs Association, and several other state and national transportation organizations as partners in the campaign.

Specifically, FHP will continue “Operation Hardhat,” a traffic safety program that features troopers disguised as construction workers to catch unsuspecting speeders.

“Florida Highway Patrol continues to work in cooperation with FDOT by providing enforcement details in work zones,” said FHP Director Colonel Chris Knight. “Through this partnership, we are striving to make working and driving in Florida’s work zones safer than ever before.”

FDOT urges motorists of all ages to drive safely in highway work zones by following these safety tips:

· Stay alert. Expect anything to occur when entering a work zone.

· Pay close attention.  Signs and work zone flaggers save lives.

· Turn on your headlights. Workers and other motorists must see you.

· Don’t tailgate. Unexpected stops frequently occur in work zones.

· Don’t speed. Note the posted speed limits in and around the work
zone.

· Keep up with the traffic flow. Dedicate your full attention to the
roadway and those traveling around you.

· Don’t change lanes in the work zone. The time saved just isn’t worth
the chance.

· Minimize distractions. Avoid changing radio stations and using mobile
phones while driving in the work zone.

· Expect the unexpected. Keep an eye out for workers and their
equipment.

· Be patient. Remember, the work zone crewmembers are working to
improve your future ride.

· ALWAYS WEAR YOUR SEATBELT!

For more information about the work zone safety campaign or current road construction projects in your area, visit itseveryonesjob.com.