The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) will observe National Work Zone Awareness Week from April 15-19. This annual campaign is part of a national effort to promote safe driving in work zones. This year’s theme is “Work Zones are temporary. Actions behind the wheel can last forever.” It encourages drivers to realize that a couple seconds of irresponsible driving can have lifelong impacts.

According to 2017-2021 statewide crash data, Florida experienced more than 53,000 work zone-related crashes, including more than 350 fatalities and more than 1,900 severe injuries.

Safety is the top priority as construction continues on Interstate 4 (I-4). With seven active I-4 Beyond the Ultimate work zones, motorists should be on the lookout for the signs, orange barrels, cones, temporary barrier walls, and construction vehicles that indicate a work zone.

Remember that your actions in work zones make a difference. FDOT advises motorists to do the following:

• Slow Down – Follow the posted speed limits and know that speeding fines double when workers are present.
• Stay Alert – Traffic patterns change, lanes can narrow or shift, and workers may be directing traffic with signs or working near the road.
• Don’t Tailgate – Traffic often slows or stops in work zones. Maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you and keep everyone safe.
• Avoid Distractions – Crashes can happen in a split second. Looking at your phone, texting, talking on the phone, eating, or changing the radio puts you, and those around you, at risk. In Florida, it is prohibited to handle a wireless communication device while operating a vehicle in work zones.

Each time a driver gets behind the wheel, it is up to them to make safe driving decisions. FDOT encourages all drivers to be part of the solution and choose to save lives. Visit fdot.gov/Safety/workzonesafety for more information about work zone safety.