State transportation officials are releasing new statistics showing a rise in work zone crashes last year on Kansas’ roadways. The Kansas Department of Transportation released its 2023 Work Zone Statistics in March, showing an increase in the number of crashes that occur in designated work zones, along with a spike in reported injuries from these incidents. The leading causes of work zone crashes in Kansas were inattention, following too closely, improper lane change, right-of-way violations and traveling too quickly for conditions.
KDOT’s report shows more than 500 people were injured in work zone crashes in 2023. Six deadly crashes that resulted in nine deaths were also reported for last year, with every death resulting from drivers and not pedestrians.
KDOT encourages drivers to follow these safety tips while traveling through work zones to avoid crashing: first, follow traffic control, next, expect delays. Stay alert. Allow for space between your vehicle and the one in front of you. Watch out for workers, and change lanes when directed to do so. Follow the rules closely. The life you save, could be your own.
