Caltrans identified distracted, impaired and inattentive driving as major contributing factors in highway worker fatalities. Photo courtesy of National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

 

SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) - Caltrans is urging motorists to slow down and follow traffic safety laws after six highway construction workers were struck and killed in work zones across California since Aug. 10.

The fatalities involved contractor employees working on Caltrans highway projects, including three workers killed in a single incident Sept. 25 in Riverside County.

Caltrans officials and transportation safety partners held a news conference to address the recent deaths and remind drivers of their responsibility to protect workers along state highways.

“Behind every cone, every flashing light, every worker in a vest is a person doing a critical job in dangerous conditions,” California Transportation Secretary Toks Omishakin said. “We are asking every driver in California to slow down, move over, remove any distractions and give crews the space and attention they deserve. It costs a driver seconds but means everything to the people in our work zones.”

Following the Riverside County deaths, Caltrans ordered an immediate safety stand-down, directing its construction teams and contractors to review roadside safety procedures.

The department also plans to establish an executive-level safety committee with industry partners to examine additional protections for highway workers.

The committee will review existing safety standards, consider new technology and equipment for work zones and identify potential changes to construction contracts that could require additional safety measures.

Caltrans Director Dina El-Tawansy said highway safety depends on motorists remaining attentive when approaching construction and maintenance crews.

“Whether they are Caltrans workers, contractors or anyone who works on the state’s transportation system, they deserve attention from all travelers driving through work zones,” El-Tawansy said. “Safer driving habits can mean the difference between a family greeting their loved one at the end of a workday or never seeing them again.”

Caltrans identified distracted, impaired and inattentive driving as major contributing factors in highway worker fatalities.

The department is reminding motorists of California's Move Over law, which requires drivers approaching stopped vehicles displaying flashing warning lights or other warning devices to change lanes when safe or reduce their speed if changing lanes is unsafe.

Since Jan. 1, the requirements have extended to any stationary vehicle covered by the law, including marked Caltrans vehicles, emergency vehicles and tow trucks displaying warning lights.

Transportation officials also recommend reducing speed when approaching construction areas, watching for changing traffic patterns and maintaining a safe distance from workers and equipment.

Drivers should avoid using mobile phones, adjusting radios or engaging in other activities that divert attention from the roadway. Motorists should also avoid driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Work zones may include highway construction, maintenance or utility operations. Traffic cones, barrels, barriers, pavement markings and warning signs generally identify these areas.

Caltrans officials said reducing speed gives drivers additional time to react to unexpected hazards and helps protect workers operating near moving vehicles.