Construction zones are an unavoidable reality across much of Georgia, and the need for them continues as communities grow and the need for new and repaired roadways increases.
While you may find it anxiety-inducing to navigate these areas, you would be wise to exercise extreme care when doing so.
According to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, the number of people who died in Georgia’s construction zones more than doubled between 2014 and 2017, with 55 people dying in these areas within this span. In 2018, 52 people died in work zone car crashes across Georgia.
Construction zone crash statistics
The repercussions of work zone car crashes are often severe even when those crashes do not result in traffic fatalities. In 2019, there were 27,235 car wrecks in Georgia’s construction zones, and they caused a collective 8,928 injuries.
Work zone car crashes and fatalities are also rising on the national level. Between 2013 and 2017, 799 people died in work zone car crashes nationwide, with the number of associated road deaths increasing by 32% within this same span.
Recommended safety measures
While you may not be able to prevent involvement in all work zone car crashes, there are several things to do to reduce your risks in these areas. Pay attention to road signs and construction crews telling you where to go. Also, slow down when navigating these areas and do not tailgate.
Find more about fatalities and injuries stemming from car wrecks on our website.