RELEASE: CONTACT:

IMMEDIATE Jeannette Coleman 804-524-6094 Donna Purcell Mayes 804-786-2717

CO-0417 April 2, 2004

Safety Breaks Planned for 40 Virginia Rest Areas
VDOT Kicks Off Work Zone Awareness Week April 4 -10

RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) invites motorists to take a safety break at 40 highway rest areas and welcome centers in Virginia on Friday, April 2, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. During the breaks, VDOT staff will offer safety information and maps to motorists, as well as light refreshments.

“Safety is a top priority at VDOT and one that we take very seriously,” said VDOT Commissioner Philip Shucet. “By offering these safety breaks, VDOT is giving motorists a chance to
re-energize during a long trip while learning more about driving safely through work zones.”

The breaks are part of VDOT’s seventh annual Work Zone Awareness Week, April 4-10. VDOT’s goal is to reduce crashes, injuries and fatalities in highway work zones. In Virginia in 2003, preliminary reports show that 16 people died and 265 were injured in 483 work zone crashes. While the number of people injured decreased from 2002 when 376 people were injured and the number of crashes was down from 663, the number of fatalities was up from seven in 2002. Although highway construction remains one of the most dangerous jobs in America, national statistics show that four out of every five persons killed in work zone crashes are motorists – drivers and their passengers.

VDOT urges motorists to drive safely through work zones by following these safety tips:
· Expect the unexpected—a work zone can change overnight
· Dedicate your full attention to the roadway and those traveling around you
· Leave plenty of space between vehicles
· Obey posted speed limits
· Avoid changing lanes in a work zone
· Minimize distractions, such as changing radio stations or using a cell phone
· Watch for flaggers and follow their directions
· Stay alert
· Be patient—highway workers are improving roads for your benefit

Travelers can report work zone or other road problems or learn of work zone locations at any time by calling VDOT’s Highway Helpline 1-800-367-ROAD (7623) (TTY users call 1-800-432-1843) or going to VDOT’s Web site at VirginiaDOT.org.