The Alaska Department of Transportation are reminding drivers that this week (April 11-15) is National Work Zone Awareness Week and they advise the motoring public to slow down this construction season.
According to the most recent national data from www.workzonesafety.org, 842 people were killed in 762 fatal work zone crashes. 17% of those fatalities were work zone workers. Drivers are urged to slow down, stay focused, watch for construction signs, and pay attention to flaggers. Workers are also encouraged to follow important safety guidelines that help prevent worker injury and death. Both drivers and workers can prevent tragedies by minimizing distractions in work zones.
DOT reports that roadway construction zones present a challenge to drivers as conditions differ from normal roadway environments. Rear-end collisions are the most common work zone crashes, primarily affecting drivers and their passengers. Construction worker injuries and fatalities are more likely to result from unexpected contact with heavy equipment, vehicles, and objects in the work zone. Alaska experiences an average of over 120 work zone crashes every year. A vehicle crash can cost a driver thousands of dollars in repairs, lost income, and medical bills.
In addition, there also will be rockfall mitigation on the Seward Highway from mile post 104.5 to 114. Work will begin around the clock with flaggers out in full force from 7:00 p.m. Sunday to 7:00 p.m. Saturday. Be alert to the centerline barrier and reduced speed.
The public is encouraged to keep up-to-date on construction traffic impacts and delays by checking www.AlaskaNavigator.org and www.511.alaska.gov.