Explosive Texas Growth Prompts More Work Zones But Also Accidents

AUSTIN, TX — Work zone fatalities in Texas increased by 27 percent last year, resulting in 181 lost lives—854 crashes in Austin alone, claiming two lives. Those grim statistics have prompted state transportation officials to urge motorists to be cautious when driving around such construction areas.

Among the fatalities, 174 of them (96 percent) were bicyclists, motorists and pedestrians, state officials said.

“People often think work zone crashes result in the deaths of roadside workers, but statistics show the vast majority of these fatalities are drivers like you and me who are passing through as motorists,” Texas Department of Transportation Executive Director James Bass said. “We urge you to pay attention and adhere to posted traffic signs when driving through work zones to ensure your safety and the safety of the men and women who are working on our roads. At the end of the day, we want everyone to return home safely to their loved ones.”

Texas in general and Austin in particular are experiencing exponential growth, which only enhances the likelihood of accidents at work zones. The upshot: more than 2,500 active TxDOT work zones can now be found at any given time, TxDot officials said.

More grim stats from TxDot: In 2016, there were 25,713 work zone crashes in Texas. The leading causes of fatal work zone crashes statewide – speeding and failure to stay in a single lane – are entirely preventable, officials said.

“We’ve all driven through work zones, but unless you’ve personally been impacted by a death or injury in one, it’s easy to forget about the human element involved,” said TxDOT Austin District Engineer Terry McCoy. “It’s heart-wrenching to hear these tragic stories about work zone crashes. That’s why I’m asking the entire community to step up and accept the challenge to plan ahead, be patient, and focus on driving safely, especially in our work zones—because one miscalculation could change your life forever.”

By law, drivers are required to move over or slow down when approaching work crews, emergency vehicles or tow trucks stopped on the roadside or shoulder with flashing blue or amber lights. Traffic fines in work zones double when workers are present and can cost up to $2,000.

>>> Photo courtesy of Texas Department of Transportation