May 1, 2012 - Houston Police Department Chief Charles A. McClelland, Jr. recently joined TxDOT and other local law enforcement agencies in promoting work zone awareness and safety.

“Work zones are very vulnerable to the workers and their equipment and there is little room for error,” said Chief McClelland.  “We want motorists to slow down, pay attention to the yellow speed zone signs, follow those signs, and be very attentive,” he added.

In 2010, there were 12,948 traffic accidents in roadway construction and maintenance work zones.  As a result of those accidents, 100 people lost their lives.  Speeding and inattention were the most common causes of those traffic accidents.

“Too many times, we get called to accidents around work zones,” said Chief McClelland.  “People don’t realize that trying to change the station on the radio, or making a call on a cell phone or exceeding the speed limit can change someone’s life instantly by having a fatal crash.” 

“For a number of years, HPD has partnered with TxDOT to enforce work zone safety and traffic enforcement around work zones,” added Chief McClelland.  “I really appreciate the work the TxDOT employees do and HPD is going to do everything we can to keep them safe.”

Motorists are asked to keep the following tips in mind when driving through work zones:

• Slow down and always follow posted work zone speed limits. Speeding is one of the major causes of work zone crashes. Remember, traffic fines double in work zones.
• Pay attention. Workers and heavy equipment may only be a few feet from passing vehicles.
• Be patient. Delays from highway construction can be frustrating, but it only takes a few extra minutes to slow down for a work zone.
• Plan ahead. Leave a few minutes early when traveling through a work zone in order to reach your destination on time.

KJS/JFC  5-1-12