NJDOT encourages safety in roadway work zones

Variable message signs, similar to the one seen under the Route 1 bridge in North Brunswick, will alert motorists to safer driving practices in work zones. The New Jersey Department of Transportation recognized National Work Zone Awareness Week, April 4- 10, with a press conference at the Route 1 construction site on April 5. PHOTOS BY JENNIFER AMATO Between 2003 and 2009, there was an average of 6,250 accidents each year in New Jersey that resulted in 2,200 injuries and 15 fatalities.

This spurred the New Jersey Department of Transportation (DOT) to kick off national Work Zone Awareness Week on April 5 at the northbound Route 1 construction site in North Brunswick.

April 4 through 10 recognizes the need for motorists to pay more attention, avoid distractions and drive more safely to protect themselves, other drivers, construction workers, utility workers, traffic guards and police officers who are on the state’s highways and roadways.

“We encourage motorists to slow down and pay extra attention to their surroundings,” said Joseph Mrozek, the deputy commissioner of DOT.

Since the warm weather brings upon the start of 200 work zones along New Jersey highways at any given time along the Turnpike, highways and bridges, the DOT is hoping that by this time next year it can proudly say there were no injuries or traffic fatalities, Mrozek said. He said traffic patterns change, speeds are reduced and roads may be closed, whether it is a pothole being filled or a major highway project being undertaken.

“The safety of our roads comes down to one thing: personal responsibility,” said Raymond Martinez, the chief administrator for the Motor Vehicle Commission. “When you are in a motor vehicle and are driving, you should be focused on driving.”

In coordination with the New Jersey Turnpike Authority, the South Jersey Transportation Authority and the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, DOT is displaying a special safety message on variable message signs, reading, “Safer Driving, Safer Work Zones, for Everyone.” DOT is also coordinating with the New Jersey Institute of Technology and Rutgers University on a study to identify where work zone accidents take place in order to drive strategies and investment decisions to reduce accidents and injuries.

The Motor Vehicle Commission is also working to ensure new drivers heed all warnings.

“Being aware of workers, traffic control devices and construction equipment when traveling in areas where projects are ongoing is not only a smart driving behavior, but one that can also save lives,” said Gary Poedubicky, acting director of Highway Traffic Safety. Contact Jennifer Amato at jamato@gmnews.com.