FFRW

In 2003 there were 1,028 people killed and 40,637 people injured in work zone crashes. Compared to 2002, work zone fatalities and injuries decreased 13% and 22%, respectively. Of the 1,028 people killed in work zones, 862 were in construction zones, 79 were in maintenance zones, 21 were in utility zones, and 66 were in an unknown type of work zone.

We all are responsible for driving, walking, and biking, safely through work zones. The engineers and planners have the responsibility to make sure the work zone is designed and operating properly -- with safety in mind. Drivers and pedestrians have the responsibility to always be alert and obey the traffic laws. The police and the courts have the responsibility to make sure that the traffic and work zone laws are enforced. Public safety agencies have the responsibility of responding to and securing crash locations and enforcing traffic laws. Local communities and county and state governments need to allocate funding for safe roads and increase public awareness about work zone safety. Everyone should take responsibility for work zone safety.