Highway worker deaths in California and Tennesee prompt ADOT Director to issue warning to drivers

After national incidents, highway worker safety comes to the fore

3 deaths in California, 1 in Tennessee serve as critical reminder for drivers

PHOENIX - As director of the Arizona Department of Transportation, John Halikowski starts each workday hoping his crews will get home safely after working to maintain the busy state highway system. In the weeks following four deaths nationwide - including three in California and one in Tennessee - he knows that it is tough to get distracted drivers to focus on driving, slowing down in construction zones, and making safety their top priority while on the road.

“Highway work zones are a dangerous environment where vehicles weighing thousands of pounds travel at speeds lethal to people working,” Halikowski said. “Drivers sometimes don’t see ‘work ahead’ warning signs, or flashing lights on our trucks. When drivers speed or allow distractions to remove their focus from the road, other motorists and our highway workers are the ones who pay the price.”

Since World War II, 60 Arizona Department of Transportation workers have been killed in work zones. The most recent was in 2006. A memorial at the Sunset Point Rest Area on Interstate 17 recognizes those who have given their lives in service to the drivers of Arizona.

“Focused driving – in any situation – is something we will continue to stress for all drivers, especially when traveling through work zones,” Halikowski said. “Which is truly more important: the message on your mobile device, getting to your destination a few seconds earlier or making sure you do not cause harm to another person? Please pay attention when driving and do not place ADOT staff and other motorists in danger. It’s just not worth it.”

Here are some tips for drivers:

• Expect the unexpected. Normal speed limits may be reduced, traffic lanes may be restricted, and people may be working on or near the road.
• Slow down! Speeding is one of the major causes of work zone accidents
• Keep a safe distance. The most common type of accident in a work zone is a rear end collision. Maintain two car lengths between you and the car in front of you as well as road crews and their equipment.
• Pay attention. The warning signs are there to help you move safely through the work zone. Observe the posted signs.
• Obey road crew flaggers. The flagger knows what is best for moving traffic safely in the work zone. A flagger has the same authority as a regulatory sign. You can be cited for disobeying his or her directions.
• Stay alert and minimize distractions. Dedicate your full attention to the roadway and avoid changing radio stations or using cell phones while driving in a work zone.
• Keep up with traffic flow. Motorists can help maintain traffic flow and posted speeds by merging as soon as possible. Do not drive right up to the lane closure and then try to barge in.
• Check road conditions. Schedule enough time to drive safely and check for traffic information by calling 5-1-1 or by logging on to http://www.az511.gov/.
• Be patient and stay calm. Remember, the road crews are working to improve the road and your commute.