Georgia DOT Observes National Work Zone Awareness Week

The Georgia Department of Transportation has observed this week as National Work Zone Awareness Week to bring attention to the dangers of driving in roadway work zones. 59 GDOT workers have died in work zones since 1973. And many more drivers as well.

This year’s theme – Work Zone Safety Is In Your Hands- calls attention to the dangers in roadway work zones. It reminds motorists that how they drive in work zones can make the difference between life and death – not only for our workers, but also for drivers and their passengers. It also reminds workers that they must always be cautious as they work in a work zone.

Georgia DOT has the following important reminders for drivers:

Work zones are not always stationary. Moving work zones that conduct maintenance activities like litter pickup, mowing, pavement marking and sweeping may move slowly and stop intermittently.

Whenever you drive, always DRIVE ALERT ARRIVE ALIVE. That means buckle up, stay off the phone and no texting, drive alert and do not drive too fast for conditions. And in work zones, follow the work zone rules: pay attention- slow down – watch for workers.

Also expect the unexpected, don’t speed or tailgate, and obey flaggers and signs. Follow Georgia’s Move-Over Law – drivers must move-over one lane or slow down and be prepared to stop when approaching a stationary law enforcement, emergency vehicle or construction or maintenance crew displaying flashing emergency lights.

For more information on Georgia DOT’s work zone safety go to www.dot.ga.gov.