While driving at any time or place can present risks, work zones are some of the most treacherous places on roadways in Georgia. Active construction projects, equipment, road obstructions, road detours, and increased traffic congestion all contribute to accidents in work zone areas.
Here’s a startling statistic from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)—while large trucks only account for about 5% of the total vehicular traffic in the U.S., they disproportionately make up one-third (33%) of fatal vehicle crashes that occur in work zones.
Safety Efforts Being Concentrated in Three States
Work zone accidents are only getting worse overtime. The most recent data available from the Department’s Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) found that, in 2019, 842 people died in highway work zone crashes, while there were 757 lives lost in 2018. This is an increase of 11.2% over the previous year — the largest increase in highway work zone crash fatalities this century!
Additionally, the FMCSA recently concentrated its efforts to promote National Work Zone Awareness Week (which took place in April) in three key states: Georgia, Florida, and Texas. These areas experience the highest rates of big truck-related work zone accidents.
How to Share Work Zones Safely
While you can’t prevent accidents in work zones caused by negligent truck drivers, there are steps that you can take to drive defensively, reduce your risk of a crash, and stay safe in these areas. The FMCSA and our team advise that you:
- Check your route before driving so you know where work zones may be. If possible, plan an alternate route.
- Stay alert and eliminate distractions when driving through work zones.
- Obey all posted traffic signs as you navigate work zones. Ensure you know what all the signs mean, too!
- Keep your speed down, increase your stopping distance, and be aware of any sudden stops.
- Be extremely careful around other vehicles, especially large trucks.
Injured in a Big Truck Wreck?
Our team recognizes the obstacles that you may face following a big truck wreck. At Jamie Casino Injury Attorneys, our Dream Team is committed to standing up for the underdog and giving a voice to those who have been injured due to another person’s negligence. While we cannot guarantee results, you have our word we will put up a tenacious fight for your recovery.
Contact our Savannah truck accident attorneys at (912) 809-5335 to get started with a free case review! We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to answer your calls.