MDOT: Over 7,000 work zone crashes reported in Michigan in 2023

LANSING, Mich. (WILX) – It’s construction season in mid-Michigan. There’s no way to avoid orange barrels and road closures.

While you can’t avoid construction, you can avoid an accident. These “Work zones are temporary, but your actions behind the wheel can last forever.” That’s this year’s American Traffic Safety Services Association’s National Work Zone Awareness Week theme. Experts are encouraging safer driving habits to avoid consequences that could impact the rest of your life.

In the Greater Lansing area, several work zone closures are taking place, from MLK Blvd to the work zone on Michigan Ave. These barriers are used not only to navigate traffic but also to keep workers within these zones safe.

“I’ve been around long enough to just see far too many people and be invited to far too many funerals,” said Rob Coppersmith of the Michigan Infrastructure and Transportation Association.

Road construction season is underway; in an attempt to protect the lives of men and women road workers, National Work Zone Awareness Week is providing drivers with important reminders.

“I can’t imagine going to work every day and having people flying by me and 70-75 miles an hour. When they’re driving illegally like that. Because you know in a work zone, you’re supposed to drive 60 miles an hour generally and then 45 when there’s workers present,” said Aaron Jenkins of Michigan’s Department of Transportation (MDOT).

According to MDOT, over 7,000 work zone crashes resulted in 20 work zone deaths in Michigan in 2023. Coppersmith says these crashes don’t only involve road workers.

“Those are people on both sides of the barrel not only workers but people that have passed driving through or getting into work zone crashes,” said Coppersmith.

“This is Work Zone Awareness Week, but you should make it Work Zone Awareness Week every week. Because these workers on going to be there every day, they’re trying to make your life better, they’re trying to make our roads better,” said Jenkins.

As construction continues, drivers should avoid distractions, such as using their phones, which is against Michigan law. Obey posted speed limits, so pay attention to signs as you approach work zones. Remember to plan ahead and pack your patience.

Work Zone Awareness Week comes as a West Michigan man is facing up to 15 years in prison. Michigan state police say logan brown of Hartford ignored signs at a construction zone and rear-ended a car that hit and killed 58-year-old road worker Rene Rangel.

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