Ohio Road Crews Urge Drivers To Slow Down And Move Over In Work Zones

The Ohio Department of Transportation and Ohio Turnpike are reminding drivers to slow down, stay alert and move over when they see crews working along the roadway.

Mike Vardian, a maintenance crew member, says road and bridge crews are working to keep travel safe, but they are often doing that job just feet away from fast moving traffic.

Vardian says workers are sometimes passed by vehicles traveling at high speeds while drivers are distracted by cell phones. His message to motorists is simple: when you see flashing lights on the side of the road, move over if possible. If you cannot move over, slow down.

During peak construction season, more than 1,000 workers may be on or near the Ohio Turnpike at any given time. Crews are repairing pavement, replacing infrastructure, improving roadways and responding to the needs of millions of travelers.

Officials say the goal is for every worker to make it home safely at the end of the day.

Drivers are being asked to maintain safe following distances, obey reduced speed limits, avoid distractions, watch for signs and lane shifts and be aware that not every work zone has concrete barriers. In some areas, only cones or barrels separate workers from live traffic.

Officials say motorists play a major role in keeping road crews safe. Paying attention, slowing down and giving workers extra room can help prevent crashes and protect the people maintaining Ohio’s roads and bridges.