DOH: slow down in work zones

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Speeding and distracted driving in highway work zones has become an “epidemic” according to state Division of Highways spokesman Brent Walker.

“It’s not just in West Virginia but across the country. We’ve to get our arms around it,” Walker said Thursday.

The DOH, working with West Virginia State Police and other law enforcement agencies, is planning stepped up enforcement in the work zones between now and September. Walker said there’s not a day that goes by that the DOH doesn’t learn of another close call in a work zone.

“It’s just this simple–just slow down, that is all,” Walker said. “The difference between going the speed limit and slowing down is really a matter of seconds–20, 40 seconds–maybe a minute.”

Walker said DOH workers and agency contractors deserve a safe place to work.

“For those folks whose offices are along the roadway—let them have some degree of safety, the expectation to work in a safe environment. Just slow down, get through the work zone and be on your way,” Walker said.

The DOH publicized a couple of close calls early in the construction season including a situation in Jackson County where a crew was working on potholes when a tractor trailer came speeding through the I-77 work zone.

The agency is expected to announce more information about its enforcement efforts next week.