Highway construction is an incredibly dangerous industry. Just check out the following statistics:
-The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) reported that one in ten construction site workers are injured every year.
-The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that there are roughly 150,000 construction site accident injuries annually.
-In 2009, there were 667 work zone fatalities National Work Zone Car Crash Statistics.
-According to the National Work Zone Car Crash Statistics, approximately one work zone fatality occurs every 10 hours (2.3 a day) and approximately one work zone injury occurs every 13 minutes (110 a day).
-Crashes in highway work zones have killed at least 4,700 Americans – more than two a day – and injured 200,000 in the last five years alone (National Work Zone Car Crash Statistics).
-Still, about 85% of people killed in work zones are motorists, not workers (National Work Zone Car Crash Statistics).
To better ensure the safety of both motorists and workers, speed limits are decreased in construction zones and heavy fines are imposed for any motorists exceeding those speed limits. Still, accidents happen.
The problem is that driving conditions drastically change when entering a highway construction zone. These conditions are worsened by poor visibility brought on by adverse weather and nighttime construction.
To better protect yourself and construction workers, be sure to do the following when entering a highway construction zone:
- slow down and use caution
- Observe and obey all signs
- Make sure your lights are on (even during the day) to increase visibility
- Do not brake suddenly
- Maintain a safe distance with the vehicle in front of you
- Be prepared to change lanes as directed
- Keep an eye out for construction workers
Remember to do your part and stay safe in highway construction zones!
If you have any questions about the Construction Industry or if you have a construction project that you need completed right the first time, please contact Reliable Contracting by calling 410-987-0313 or visit our website.
Reliable Contracting maintains a reputation as a leader in the construction industry. Our clientele includes builders, developers, individuals and government agencies. With projects ranging in cost from $10,000 to over $10 million, Reliable can be seen working on Maryland’s roads, highways, airports, office parks, shopping centers, hospitals, churches, and residential neighborhoods earning our reputation by providing clients with consistent quality and dedication to their projects.
Reliable Contracting Company serves the following and surrounding Counties: Annapolis, Queen Anne’s, Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Baltimore City, Calvert, Caroline, Charles, Howard, Prince George, St. Mary’s, Talbot, and Washington D.C.