![\"ODOT](\"https:\/\/www.thevwindependent.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2010\/12\/ODOT-logo.gif\"){kind=logo}
<\/a>\u00a0\u201cWe also hope drivers will remember that a work zone can be a mile of barrels and barricades, or a single vehicle with flashing lights on the side of the road,\u201d Director Wray added. \u201cNo matter the case, it means someone is out doing their job, and it\u2019s Ohio\u2019s law to slow down and move over so they can do it safely.\u201d<\/p>\nIn 2014, more than 5,100 crashes occurred in ODOT work zones — the equivalent of one every two hours. More than 1,000 people were injured and 17 lost their lives. State and national statistics show that motorists are twice as likely than construction workers to be injured in work zone crashes.<\/p>\n
March 23 through 25 marks National Work Zone Awareness Week. To make work zones safer for everyone, ODOT offers these driving tips:<\/p>\n
Don\u2019t Speed<\/b>. Reducing speed to 45 mph through a two-mile work zone adds less than a minute to a commute.<\/p>\n
Stay Alert.<\/b> In work zones, traffic lanes may shift or close; large, slow-moving equipment may enter or exit the highway, or other drivers may respond unexpectedly. Watch for barrels and directional signs, obey flaggers and be aware of workers and other drivers.<\/p>\n
Know Before You Go.<\/b> Visit Ohgo.com<\/a> or follow local traffic reporters for up-to-date construction information<\/p>\n