National Work Zone Awareness Week April 11-15, 2022

The City of La Marque is reminding drivers to prioritize safe driving when passing through over 3,100 active work zones in Texas, in recognition of National Work Zone Awareness Week from April 11-15, 2022. Work zone crashes have been a major concern, with over 26,000 traffic crashes resulting in 244 fatalities and 856 serious injuries in 2021. Of those fatalities, motorists and their passengers accounted for the majority, with 195 deaths, followed by 38 pedestrians, four bicyclists, and three roadside construction workers. The leading causes of these crashes were speeding and driver inattention.

Driving through work zones can be challenging, with uneven pavement, narrow lanes, slow-moving heavy equipment, and vehicles that make sudden stops. To ensure safety, motorists are advised to slow down, follow the posted work zone speed limit, pay attention, avoid distractions, keep a safe distance from other vehicles, and watch out for road crews. TxDOT is working on increased safety measures and public outreach efforts to educate motorists about driving in work zones, including the Move Over/Slow Down law that requires drivers to move over a lane or reduce their speed to 20 mph below the posted speed limit when approaching a stopped TxDOT vehicle, emergency vehicle, law enforcement, tow truck, or utility vehicle with activated flashing lights on the roadside or shoulder. Violation of this law can result in a fine of up to $2,000.