Last fall, KQ2 reported an increase in overall traffic accidents and fatalities in Missouri. The concerning trend includes a rise in truck crashes that occur in work zones.
Review the details about the data and take steps to protect yourself when driving through work zones.
Looking at the numbers
In the article, a public information representative from the Missouri State Highway Patrol reported these statistics for the period from September 2020 to September 2021:
- 30% increase in traffic accidents
- 2% increase in traffic fatalities
- 25% increase in work zone crashes
MoDOT State Highways Safety and Traffic Engineer said the state saw a record number of truck crashes in work zones in 2021. These accidents most commonly occur when motorists collide with Transportation Management Association trucks.
Staying safe at work on the road
Construction site crashes on Missouri highways most commonly occur between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. MoDOT cites driver speed, reckless driving and distractions behind the wheel as the most common causes for these hazardous incidents.
You can reduce your risk of being in a truck accident in a work zone by:
- Drive slowly through work zones and adhere to the lowered speed limits
- Follow the lines in the road rather than the car in front of you
- Slow down even more when trucks are entering and leaving the site
- Do not eat, text, change the radio station, or perform any other action that takes your hands off the wheel
If you are involved in an accident with a truck on a construction site, you may have a case for a personal injury claim. Reporting the incident promptly ensures that you retain eligibility to receive compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering and even loss of life.