The Florida DOT has launched a public safety campaign aimed at educating motorists about the dangers of reckless driving in highway work zones in Tallahassee. 

According to FDOT Assistant Secretary Kevin Thibault, “Maintaining safety in Florida work zones doesn’t just fall on the shoulders of the people who work there.  It is the responsibility of all motorists to ensure that roadway construction zones are safe places for workers, drivers and pedestrians alike.”

In 2006, the most recent year for which Florida traffic crash data is available, 3,737 cashes occurred in Florida work zones resulting in 2,822 injuries and 119 fatalities.  Of the 119 people killed in work zones, only six were workers.  The rest were motorists and pedestrians.  At the press conference, the American Traffic Safety Services Association (ATSSA) memorialized those killed in work zones with orange traffic cones donning black ribbons. 

Officials agree a majority of work zone crashes can be prevented with the cooperation of drivers and work crews.  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 cell phones while driving, especially when in a 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.

Work Zone Safety Awareness Week will be observed April 7-11, 2008.