“You Play a Role in Work Zone Safety. Work With Us.”
DEMING – On Apr. 17, 2023, the New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT) and the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) came together to celebrate National Work Zone Awareness Week (NWZAW) April 17-21. This event was held to remind drivers to pay attention as they approach, drive through or past work zones so both motorists and roadway workers remain safe.
The goal is to remind everyone to pay attention as they approach and drive through work zones so both motorists and roadway workers remain safe. This year’s National Work Zone Awareness Week theme is “You Play a Role in Work Zone Safety. Work With Us.”
In the El Paso District in 2022, there were 944 traffic crashes in work zones, resulting in 4 fatalities and 14 serious injuries. In El Paso, there were 710 traffic crashes in work zones, resulting in no fatalities and 12 serious injuries.
“Work zones present a different and sometimes challenging environment for drivers to navigate,” said TxDOT El Paso District Engineer Tomas Treviño. “Drivers may encounter uneven pavement, narrow lanes, concrete barriers, slow-moving heavy equipment and vehicles that make sudden stops.”
The vast majority of those killed in work zone crashes, 85%, were drivers or their passengers. Residents and the public are reminded to drive and work safely to help save lives.
“We remind you to watch out for road crews,” said NMDOT Interim District Engineer Aaron Chavarria. “The only protective gear they wear are reflective clothing, hard hats, and safety boots. Always follow detours and be mindful of construction area road signs. Road workers want to get home safe too. In the last three weeks alone, we have had five employees hit in a work zone.”
Tips for driving safely in a work zone:
- Slow down. Speeding is one of the major causes of work zone crashes.
- Don’t tailgate. Keep a safe distance between you, the car ahead of you, the construction workers, and their equipment.
- Pay attention to signage
- Stay alert and minimize distractions. No phones, loud music, makeup, or food.
- Be patient and stay calm.
The NMDOT and TxDOT is committed to the safety of the traveling public and appreciates your cooperation during roadway construction zones. For updated information visit: New Mexico Department of Transportation at www.nmroads.com or call 511 or 1-800-432-4269. Visit: Texas Department of Transportation work zones and closures visit http://drivetexas.org or www.txdot.gov