ODOT work zone campaign aims to keep workers safe

CHILLICOTHE -- A little more than a month ago, a state transportation worker was struck by a car and seriously injured in Pike County.

The incident was another reminder for the Ohio Department of Transportation that work zones are dangerous places for state workers -- and that drivers need to realize how little room for error there is in construction areas.

"Last year alone, there were 5,100 work zone crashes that injured 1,000 people and killed 17. Those stats don't just include workers, but also motorists," said ODOT press secretary Matt Bruning.

In the June 16 incident in Pike County, the car was traveling about 45 mph and the worker was doing spot repairs along Ohio 220. A passing driver first struck the ODOT truck, but then went left of center and struck the worker.

The department's 2015 campaign to help promote work zone safety includes "Move Over Monday" and "Worker Wednesday" each week to raise awareness about the issue. Each of ODOT's 12 districts and Central Office are sharing videos, photos, graphics, and other information on each of those days to get the word out.

Bruning said slowing down makes good sense for gas mileage in addition to other benefits. "Slowing down to 45 mph in a 2 mile long work zone only adds about a minute to your drive, so there's no need to speed," he said.