One-Third of Highway Builders Had 5 or More Crashes in Work Zones Last Year, Says AGC

WORK ZONE SAFETY: A KNOCKING CONCERN FOR EVERYONE ON THE ROAD

In a recent survey conducted by the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) and Heavy Construction Systems Specialists (HCSS), alarming statistics have emerged about the safety of highway work zones. Many contractors, about 60%, said they experienced at least one crash involving a moving vehicle in a work zone over the past year. What’s more shocking is that around one-third of those reported five or more crashes. As summer approaches, which is a busy time for construction projects, the risks are becoming a pressing concern.

A significant portion, over 90%, of contractors pointed to distracted driving as a primary cause of these crashes. This includes not just texting or on-the-phone distractions but also behaviors like speeding and impaired driving. These reckless actions not only delay important construction projects but also put workers and other drivers at serious risk.

HIDDEN HAZARDS AND RISKY ROAD BEHAVIOR

The survey highlights a rising fear among many contractors about the dangers that highway workers face. Nearly 27% of contractors who reported accidents indicated that their workers suffered injuries, while around 59% cited injuries to drivers or passengers. Unfortunately, some fatalities were reported as well. Seven percent noted that construction workers were killed in work zone crashes throughout the past year, and 22% disclosed that drivers or passengers lost their lives under similar circumstances.

Brian Turmail, vice president at AGC, emphasized just how perilous these work zones can be. He shared during a recent webinar that construction workers are often just feet away from fast-moving traffic and are relying on drivers to act sensibly. The expectation is that motorists should slow down and pay attention while navigating these areas.

Despite some improvement in reported fatalities from previous years, the survey revealed that the risks seem to be growing. Macrina Wilkins from AGC acknowledged that while there are fewer reported fatalities now, other risky elements like injuries and project delays should not be ignored.

CALL FOR STRONGER ENFORCEMENT

Contractors are increasingly advocating for stricter laws around traffic violations in work zones. About 37% said that penalties for drivers caught speeding or distracted should be harsher, and 39% felt existing penalties aren’t enforced enough. Only 29% believe current measures are effectively deterring unsafe driving.

This isn’t solely a concern for the construction industry; it’s a public safety issue impacting everyone who uses the roads. Steve McGough, CEO of HCSS, made it clear that the ultimate goal should be zero injuries and fatalities. The concern isn’t confined to daytime work; nighttime accidents have also become more frequent. One-third of contractors indicated that nighttime crashes have seen an uptick in the last year, often due to the same dangerous driving behaviors disrupting safety.

THE COST OF SAFETY

Financial challenges are also complicating safety measures in work zones. Many contractors reported that rising costs of materials have hindered their ability to acquire barriers, signage, and other critical safety equipment. Despite these challenges, contractors are actively seeking ways to improve safety through increased visibility and advanced warning systems. Some are investing in truck-mounted attenuators, which are crucial for protecting both workers and drivers.

Heather Agee, the chief strategy officer at IBC Traffic, underscored the notion that while extensive safety protocols are being followed, the biggest hurdle remains driver behavior. From her perspective, work zone safety cannot depend solely on the workers inside of the cones; it’s a collective responsibility we all share. The message is simple: people often don’t return home safely to their families, and this is something we cannot afford to accept.

Stay tuned for updates on car safety and how you can play your part in ensuring the roads are safe for everyone. For more tips and stories about car safety, follow us on Facebook and visit our website, losangelescashforcarsquick, to stay informed and engaged.

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