Work Zone Awareness Week reminds motorists to use caution during road construction

 
SPRINGFIELD – With construction season underway, the Illinois Department of Transportation, Illinois State Police, and other agencies have teamed up for National Work Zone Awareness Week to remind motorists that “You play a role in work zone safety. Work with us.” Authorities say when you approach a work zone, you should eliminate distractions, decrease your speed and proceed with caution. Each year, more than 6,000 motor vehicle crashes on average occur in Illinois work zones, resulting in more than 1,500 injuries.
“Already this year, five Illinois State Police troopers have been injured because people didn’t slow down and move over when they saw the flashing lights of an emergency vehicle,” said ISP Director Brendan F. Kelly. “First responders and highway maintainers put their lives on the line every time they work on a roadway with cars speeding past. Do your part to help keep them safe – pay attention, slow down, and move over as you drive near and through work zones.”