TxDOT, EP Electric, law enforcement observe ‘Work Zone Awareness’ week

Jocelyn Flores
·2 min read

EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) and regional partners are teaming up to recognize “National Work Zone Awareness” week (NWZAW) from Monday, April 15 through Friday, April 19.

TxDOT, the New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT), El Paso Electric, and local police are urging the community to drive safely near work zones, according to the news release by TxDOT.

In 2023, there were 835 crashes in El Paso work zones, resulting in 10 deaths and 20 people seriously injured, according to data by TxDOT.

“Road crews are often working only a few feet away from fast-moving vehicles and are counting on drivers to pay attention to traffic control devices and flashing signs to keep them safe. The public should be aware we are working for them, and our men and women out there have family and friends they want to go home to at the end of each day,” said TxDOT El Paso District Engineer Tomas Treviño.

In celebration of NWZAW, NMDOT introduced their newest member to the team: Zippy, a roadrunner mascot to promote work zone safety.

Zippy the Roadrunner, new mascot for NMDOT. Photo courtesy of NMDOT
Zippy the Roadrunner, new mascot for NMDOT. Photo courtesy of NMDOT

“Developing good driving habits can help you navigate through a work zone without any regrets. It is important to be considerate towards the workers and other drivers who are on the road with you. You can ensure your safety and the safety of others by making it a habit to reduce your speed and follow the construction signs in a work zone. Let’s all work together to get home safely,” said NMDOT District Engineer Aaron Chavarria.

TxDOT is reminding drivers of the “Move Over/ Slow Down” law. Drivers are required to either move over to the other lane or reduce speed to 20 mph below the posted speed limit. For failure to follow the “Move Over/ Slow Down” law, drivers will be fined up to $1,250 for the first offense.

After the first offense, drivers could also face up to jail time and a fine of up to $4,000, according to the news release by TxDOT.

Here are some driving tips TxDOT is sharing for driving in a work zone:

  • Slow down; speeding is one of the major causes of work zone crashes.

  • Don’t tailgate. Keep a good distance between the car ahead of you. Construction workers and their equipment.

  • Pay attention to detours and traffic control. Watch for speed reduction and changes in configurations.

  • Stay alert and minimize distractions. No phones, loud music, makeup or food.

  • Be patient and stay calm.

TxDOT and regional partners are also asking the community to wear orange on Wednesday, April 17 to spread work zone safety awareness and encourage safe driving. The Star on the Franklin Mountains will also turn orange that day.

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