The Nevada Department of Transportation has several road projects scheduled through the summer months. As part of National Work Zone Awareness Week, they are asking drivers to be extra careful. There were 989 car crashes in Nevada work zones between July 1, 2013 to July 1, 2014.
"In just one recent one-year period, there were six fatalities in Nevada roadwork zones," Meg Ragonese, NDOT Public Information Officer said. "Those were all drivers."
While safety is critical for construction workers, this week's campaign is also a reminder of how serious driving in work zones is for everyone involved.
"Drivers, pedestrians, bicyclists, anyone who may be in or around those roadwork zones," Ragonese said. "This is really an important reminder for the safety of everyone."
25 NDOT employees have been killed in roadwork crashes, since 1948. With the help of drivers, the goal is to prevent another one.
"All these employees are out there on the road, building their projects for us, as drivers and bicyclists and pedestrians to use," Ragonese said.
The penalty for speeding violations doubles in a work zone. But being attentive is also an important part of driving. Things are always changing in those areas. Cones can be moved and the route can be altered on a daily basis.
"That's why it's so critical, even in areas of long-term improvements or long-term work that we always keep our eye on the road ahead, and make sure that we're following all roadwork zone signs and speed limits," Ragonese said.
Ragonese says if you know you're going to be driving through a work zone, give yourself extra time and don't follow too closely behind other drivers. Â
