Slow your roll for worker safety
Orange barrel season is in full bloom with major road construction projects underway across the Flathead Valley.
From the massive rebuild on Reserve Drive in Kalispell to extensive pavement overlays on U.S. 93 and U.S. 2, work zones will be a constant presence on area highways all summer.
With these projects come reduced lanes and lower speed limits that undoubtedly affect driving times. While the delays can be frustrating, it’s vital that commuters heed work zone speed limits to ensure the safety of crews working at all hours of the day.
Failure to do so could easily lead to tragedy.
Today’s front-page story details how construction flagger Joesph Gove was run over by a driver who was allegedly speeding through a work zone in Bigfork earlier this month. Gove was injured so badly by the collision that three weeks later he remains intubated in the hospital’s intensive care unit.
Sadly, his scenario is all too common.
Statistics indicate there were nearly 900 work zone related deaths in the U.S. in 2022. In Montana, there were 18 work zone fatalities between 2018 and 2020.
Most fatalities in construction zones involved workers on foot that were struck by vehicles, just like Gove.
“It’s complete disregard for our lives out here,” commented Gem Wysel, a local traffic control supervisor.
And a total lack of respect for the crews putting their safety on the line every day.
Don’t be a hot head who rides bumpers through a work zone only to hit the next stop light at the same time as everyone else.
This summer, pack some patience and follow these work zone safety tips to ensure everyone makes it home at the end of their shift.
• Plan ahead. Leave a few minutes early to accommodate traffic delays or simply take another route and enjoy a new view during the morning commute.
• Be considerate. Crews are working to maintain vital infrastructure and improve your driving experience. That fresh pavement overlay will be totally worth the temporary headache.
• Stay alert. While you may see workers, they may not see you. Avoid distractions like cell phones and keep your eyes peeled for workers and heavy machinery.
• Slow down. As the saying goes, give ‘em a break. Getting to your destination a few minutes early isn’t worth risking a worker’s safety — or life.