IDOT urging safe work zone driving

Posted on April 14, 2016

Road construction — More than 4,300 motor vehicle crashes on average occur in Illinois work zones every year. (WJBC file photo)

By Adam Studzinski

BLOOMINGTON – This week is National Work Zone Safety week and the Illinois Department of Transportation is making sure drivers are being cautious in work zones.

IDOT spokeswoman Gianno Urgo said this is especially important because spring is here and construction season is getting underway.

“If you’re on the roads you will be driving in work zones. So we ask you to be constantly aware of your surroundings and make sure that you’re avoiding distractions in your vehicle,” she said.

Urgo added traffic pattern changes can pop up at any minute.

“And that can change from day-to-day, minute-to-minute,” said Urgo. “That’s why you have to be aware of your surroundings and make sure you’re paying attention to the warning signs.

“If you’re eating, you’re talking on the phone, doing your makeup, you’re not going to be able to properly react to those warning signs – and that’s the most dangerous part.”

Illinois has strengthened laws to increase safety in work zones. Fines for speeding in work zones are $375 for first-time offenders and $1,000 for a second offense. The penalty for hitting a worker is a fine of up to $10,000 and 14 years in prison.

Adam Studzinski can be reached at [email protected].

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