Sharing the Road: Keeping Work Zones Safe for Everyone

April 20-24 | National Work Zone Awareness Week

Work zones are among the most dangerous areas on the road. Data from the Indiana Department of Transportation shows that 269 people have died in work zone crashes over the past 10 years. In 2023, 33 people were killed, and more than 1,750 were injured in INDOT work zones.

Work zones are not limited to highway construction—they also include utility crews working along the roadside to build, maintain, and repair electric infrastructure. These crews may be working around the next bend, over a hill, or during overnight hours.

“Our crews already face dangerous conditions in their work,” said Kurtis Doll, Manager of Operations, Safety & Compliance. “We ask drivers to slow down, stay alert, and give them space to return home safely.”

Motorists should:
  •  Watch for orange work zone signs, flaggers, and vehicles with flashing lights.
  •  Slow down and be prepared for sudden stops.
  •  Avoid sudden or unnecessary stops in the roadway, which can increase the risk of rear-end collisions.

Indiana’s “Move Over” law requires drivers to move over for stopped vehicles with flashing lights. If it’s not safe to change lanes, drivers must slow to at least 10 mph below the posted speed limit. The law applies to emergency vehicles, highway crews, tow trucks, utility vehicles, and others with flashing or hazard lights.

Do your part to protect lives. Slow down, stay alert, and give roadside crews plenty of space every single time you approach a work zone. Take these steps to help ensure everyone goes home safely.