Spring signals the startup of an essential season: construction. Drivers around the nation will witness more orange signs displayed on highways as highway workers strive to repair, maintain and upgrade infrastructure for our use. To ensure everyone’s safety this spring – motorists and workers alike – trucking industry leaders are spreading awareness about collaboration in work zone settings.
Motor vehicle collisions in work zones are an alarming and tragic reality for many American workers. In 2020 alone, data from workzonesafety.org has revealed that a staggering 857 lives were taken by these incidents – among them, 117 at-work fatalities caused by 774 fatal crashes nationwide.
National Work Zone Awareness Week, from April 17-21 this year, is shining a spotlight on the importance of driver safety in and around construction sites. The campaign aims to spread awareness about the potential hazards that lie within these zones and how we can all help by slowing down when passing through them.
Delays caused by road construction can be a nuisance, but these projects are essential for keeping our roads safe and in good condition. Without them, drivers would face greater risks while traveling the highways of America’s cities and towns – not to mention truckers who regularly deliver commodities vital to their upkeep.
As the weather turns warmer and more construction activities are underway, drivers should be on high alert for orange road signs – a reminder to slow down when entering work zones. This simple action combined with following speed limits and minimizing distractions can help save lives in these potentially dangerous areas.
America’s 3.49 million professional truck drivers recognize the paramount importance of keeping roads safe, not only for their fellow travelers and families back home–but also as a measure to protect themselves on routes across the country. With that in mind they remain vigilant while behind the wheel, setting an example by embracing responsibility with every mile traveled.
The trucking industry does more than just deliver essential goods to our nation – it also ensures their safe, on-time arrival. Every year, billions of dollars are put into safety programs and training for trucks and drivers alike. Thanks to these public investments in safety initiatives within the trucking sector, families can rest assured that products will reach them without obstruction or delays caused by unsafe practices.
As the weather warms and construction season kicks into full gear, remind yourself that safety on our nation’s roads is a shared responsibility. Whether it be cars or trucks, taking extra caution in work zones can go a long way to ensure everyone gets home safe this spring. Join with America’s trucking industry as they take steps of their own towards making sure roadways stay secure for all drivers.
