Clark County Highway Commissioner Brian Duell urges everyone to drive carefully in highway work zones throughout the construction and maintenance season.
According to data provided by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT), over the past five years there have been more than 11,500 crashes in Wisconsin work zones, which
have caused 63 deaths and more than 4,300 injuries.
“Our highway crews work very hard for our communities, often within feet of traffic”, Duell said. “Just like you, they want to make it home at the end of their day to see their families. Please pay attention in work zones and slow down. We ask everyone on the road to eliminate distractions and slow down.”
Drivers are reminded of the state’s Move Over Law. This law requires drivers to shift lanes or
slow down to provide a safety buffer for a law enforcement vehicle, ambulance, fire truck, tow truck, utility vehicle and highway maintenance vehicles that are stopped on the side of a road with their warning lights flashing.
Hand-held cell phone use is illegal and fines double in construction zones as well as areas
surrounding emergency response vehicles with flashing lights.
This year’s National Work Zone Awareness Week takes place April 17-21. This year’s theme is
“You play a role in work zone safety. Work with us.” Work Zone Awareness Week is sponsored by federal, state and local transportation officials to draw attention to the safety needs of road workers during construction season.
Wednesday, April 19, is “Go Orange Day,” in which people are asked to wear orange in support of highway works and highway safety.
Give your undivided attention to the road:
Eliminate distractions. Eating, drinking, talking on the phone, or simply changing the radio station can divert your focus to the road ahead.
Expect the unexpected. Speed limits may be reduced, traffic lanes may be changed, and people and vehicles may be working on or near the road.
Slow down. A car traveling 60 mph travels 88 feet per second, and the faster you go the longer it takes to stop. Do not tailgate.
Be patient. If you don’t see workers, that doesn’t mean they’re not there. Observe the signs until you see one that says you’ve left the work zone.
Plan ahead. Leave early or map out an alternate route. Find the latest road conditions and work zone news at 511 Wisconsin.
Move over, if possible, or slow down when you see flashing lights.
Brian Duell, Clark County Highway Commissioner