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"Driving requires all your attention, but that is especially true in work zones where things can change quickly. Drop the distractions, obey the speed limit, and allow extra room between your vehicle and the one in front of you," Ohio Department of Transportation Director Jack Marchbanks said Thursday.
As the spring construction season gets into full swing, it is a good time to remember just how much is at stake if we don't follow his advice.
According to ODOT, last year there were 4,098 work zone-related crashes in Ohio -- 36% occurring when workers were present. There were 1,433 injuries from work zone-related crashes, 110 of them serious. Nine people were killed, including one contractor.
Ohio State Highway Patrol troopers are always on the lookout for those speeding, driving distracted or otherwise violating the law in work zones, but it would be nice if we didn't give them much to do this spring and summer. Forget about the tickets, the fines, the insurance rates or the points on the license, what is important here is the health and safety of ODOT workers (not to mention other drivers or even occupants of our own vehicles).
This year alone, 43 ODOT crew members have been struck while working. The total for all of last year was 56.
"It's been said before, first responders -- and roadside workers -- are willing to give their lives in service to others, but they would much rather live a life of service," said Col. Charles A. Jones, Ohio State Highway Patrol superintendent.
Pay attention, slow down, follow the rules, and let them do just that.