Texas highlights safety during National Work Zone Awareness Week as work zone crashes lead to hundreds of deaths

Austin, Texas – Texas continues to expand at a rapid pace, and with more people comes more traffic on the state’s roads. To keep up with that growth, the Texas Department of Transportation is actively working across the state, with more than 1,800 active work zones currently underway. As construction increases, officials are now placing renewed focus on safety, urging drivers to stay alert and cautious when traveling through these areas.

The push comes as new data reveals the serious risks tied to work-zone driving. In 2025 alone, Texas recorded more than 28,000 crashes in work zones. These incidents led to 203 deaths, including seven roadside workers. While construction crews face danger every day, the majority of those who lost their lives were actually drivers and passengers, showing how critical safe driving habits are in these areas.

Raising awareness during Work Zone Awareness Week

To address these concerns, TxDOT is highlighting safety during National Work Zone Awareness Week, observed from April 20 through April 24. The campaign aims to remind drivers that work zones are not just construction areas but high-risk environments where attention and caution can save lives.

“Maintaining a safe highway system requires year-round effort from brave and dedicated work crews,” said TxDOT Executive Director Marc Williams. “Unfortunately, work zone crashes happen far too often. It’s crucial that drivers slow down, pay attention and give workers space. It’s the Texan thing to do.”

Officials stress that driving carefully in work zones protects everyone on the road, including drivers themselves. Many crashes happen because of simple mistakes such as speeding, distraction, or following too closely behind another vehicle.

To reduce these risks, TxDOT is encouraging drivers to follow several key safety practices. Slowing down is one of the most important steps, especially since speed limits may change depending on road conditions. Drivers are also reminded that fines can double in work zones when workers are present.

Staying focused is equally important. Distractions such as using a phone can quickly lead to accidents, especially in areas where traffic patterns may shift. Drivers are also urged to watch closely for road crews and follow all posted signs and instructions.

Keeping a safe distance between vehicles is another major point of emphasis. Rear-end crashes are the most common type of accident in work zones, often caused by drivers not leaving enough space to stop safely. Planning ahead and allowing extra travel time can also help reduce the urge to speed through construction areas.

In addition, motorists are reminded to follow the state’s Move Over or Slow Down law. This rule requires drivers to either change lanes or reduce their speed by 20 miles per hour below the posted limit when approaching vehicles stopped on the roadside with flashing lights. This applies not only to law enforcement but also to emergency vehicles, TxDOT crews, tow trucks, and utility workers.

As construction continues across Texas, officials say safety must remain a shared responsibility. With thousands of work zones active, every driver plays a role in helping reduce crashes and ensuring that both workers and travelers make it home safely.