Tuesday, April 23, 2013

Study Warns Drivers of Construction Work Zone Crashes


A study by the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) reveals that 38% of U.S. highway contractors had motor vehicles crash into their construction zones in the past year. The AGC surveyed approximately 800 contractors to gain information about work zone crashes, injuries, and fatalities.


While construction workers suffer injuries from 18% of such crashes, the study shows that work zone crashes are more likely to kill vehicle drivers and passengers than construction workers. According to the survey, 46% of contractors reported that motor vehicle operators or passengers were injured as a result of work zone crashes, and 14% of the drivers and passengers affected by those crashes were killed.

A reported 68% of contractors nationwide believe that the number of incidents, injuries and fatalities could be reduced with tougher laws, fines and legal penalties for moving violations. Another 84% of contractors think a greater police presence at work zone construction sites would be beneficial. Additionally, 70% of contractors think more safety training for highway workers would decrease work zone crashes.

Find the national highway construction zone survey results here.