13.2 Overview of Work Zone Crashes

  • Young male motorists (ages 25 – 34) are most likely to be involved in work zone crashes. Knowledge of work zones and how they influence safety is valuable for reducing crash risk. Table 13.1 provides general guidance on structuring and managing work zones.
Table 13.1 Design Guidance for Work Zones
Crash Characteristic Impacts on Crash Frequency and Severity
Work Zone Area
  • Work zones increase rear-end and fixed-object crashes
  • When designing work zones and deciding on speed limits, it is important to make choices that reduce speed variability.
  • Signs need to provide motorists advance warning of downstream work zones.
Interstates
  • When positioning work zone signs, account for roadway speed so their placement lets motorists perceive and process a sign
Night Work
  • Lane closures and long traffic queues can increase crashes at night. Use caution modes on arrow panels to warn motorists of lane closures.
Speed Limits
  • If possible, keep work zone speed limits within 10 mph of normal speed limits to maintain safe traffic flows.
Considerations for Heavy Vehicles
  • Compared to passenger vehicles, heavy trucks require more distance to slow down and stop.
  • If heavy trucks have a significant presence, provide greater advanced warning of downstream work zones.

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Chris VanDyke

Research Scientist | Program Manager

chrisvandyke@uky.edu