An awareness campaign in Prince George stresses safe driving near roadside workers, prompted by a rise in citations for distractions. Led by Trace Acres, it advocates reduced speed and increased attentiveness, stressing that work zones demand caution. Roadside workers face significant vulnerability as vehicles pass by. Acres emphasizes most crashes are preventable. Drivers and passengers also face risks, making it crucial to remain focused and exercise caution.
An awareness campaign in Prince George stresses safe driving to curb distractions and ensure adherence to flag signals and traffic directives. It responds to the increasing presence of roadside workers.
Prompted by a traffic enforcement event where authorities issued 42 citations in two hours, with 31 for cellphone use, the campaign underscores the risks of distracted driving.
According to Trace Acres, Program Director for Road Safety at Work, every time a driver navigates a roadside work area, they enter a worker’s workplace. Managed by Road Safety at Work with backing from the Work Zone Safety Alliance, the campaign advocates for reduced speed and heightened attentiveness. It emphasizes that while work zones are temporary, the consequences of negligence on the road can be enduring.
Protecting Roadside Workers and Drivers in Work Zones
Roadside workers face significant vulnerability as vehicles pass mere meters from them. This group encompasses traffic controllers, maintenance crews, utility workers, landscapers, paramedics, police officers, tow operators, waste collectors, and others. Each shift, they face the constant risk of vehicle collisions.
Acres emphasizes that most crashes involving roadside workers are avoidable. These workers play crucial roles in society, and respecting their space is vital for their safety.
Drivers, along with their passengers, also face risks in work zones. Speeding and distractions increase the likelihood of accidents. Remaining fully focused is crucial as split-second decisions can be life-saving.
Whenever feasible, it’s best to steer clear of Cone Zones by planning alternate routes in advance. However, if driving through one is unavoidable, exercising caution and remaining alert are paramount.