With summer approaching, it’s the season for roadway work. This can feel like a hassle, but we should all have respect for the safety of workers on the roadway. According to Washington state Department of Transportation, there were 837 roadway work zone injuries on state roads last year. Sadly, seven of these injuries were fatalities. On a national level, 600 people are killed annually in traffic accidents occurring in roadway work zones. Safer driving in roadway construction zones can help reduce these numbers and prevent injuries.
Washington drivers should also be aware that there are consequences for not driving safely in construction zones: In Washington state, the penalties for speeding double in a constructions zones. Intentionally hitting a cone or driving recklessly in a construction zone can result in a gross misdemeanor and an automatic 60-day license suspension.
While we as drivers have a responsibility to exercise safe driving, construction companies should also make sure that they are taking adequate steps to ensure safety for their workers and the public. According to Washington law it is important that construction companies display adequate signage warning drivers of conditions on the roadway and indicating where construction zones start and stop.
Roadway workers have a dangerous job and they are offering an important service to the community. Together, citizens and construction companies can work to make sure roadway workers and drivers both stay safe in construction zones.
Mike Nowak
Tulalip
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