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Motorists urged to drive safely through roadworks to cut death and injury toll
Drivers are being urged to take extra care at roadworks as the Highways Agency (HA) highlights its safety message to prevent deaths and injuries among road workers and road users.
Research undertaken by the HA shows that twice as many drivers now recognise that they have a responsibility to drive safely near roadworks compared to four years ago. More than eight out of ten drivers say that their driving changes at roadworks, including slowing down and being more careful and attentive.
The HA is working with the construction industry and road users to reduce the risks of working on the roads. For the safety of road workers and all road users the HA advise that when approaching roadworks:
- keep within the speed limit;
- get into the correct lane in good time;
- concentrate on the road ahead;
- be alert for works’ traffic leaving or entering roadworks;
- keep a safe distance; and
- observe all signs.
Families wrecked for a “few seconds of selfishness”
Nine road workers died and 10 were seriously injured while working on motorways and major A roads in England between 2005 and 2010. These were as a direct result of accidents involving drivers travelling through works. Over the same period seven drivers and three passengers were reported to have been killed while driving through road works
The HA “Respect” video delivers a powerful short message and Photographs supporting the Safety at Roadworks activity are also available.
Roads Minister Mike Penning said:
“Road workers work in a dangerous environment and it’s vital drivers show them respect and consideration by driving safely and keeping within the speed limit.
I welcome the research findings that show more and more drivers realise how important it is to take care while driving near roadworks. However, more needs to be done as the death and injury toll is still unacceptable.”
Driving through half a mile of roadworks at 50mph takes just ten seconds more than at 70mph. My message to road users is clear: Do not risk lives and wreck families for a few seconds of selfishness.”