MoDOT urges drivers to be safe and alert in work zones

MoDOT is urging drivers to observe safety rules in work zones in Jefferson City.

Whether it’s road maintenance or construction projects, work zone crashes continue to be a big problem in the state.

In the last 5 years, there have been 53 deaths and more than 3300 injuries in those kinds of accidents.

MoDOT said common reasons are distracted driving, following too closely, and driving too fast for the conditions.

“Slow down, pay attention, and most importantly, we need to put our phones down to watch what work is going around because you never really know what’s going on in a work zone. So slow down and take your time so everybody can go home safe at night,” said MoDOT Work Zone Coordinator Joe Moore.

The penalty in Missouri for hitting a worker is a $10,000 fine and the revocation of the driver’s license for at least a year.