The State of Colorado has seen a rise in fatal crashes in construction work zones in 2020, according to data gathered by the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT).

Statewide there have been ten traffic fatalities in construction zones, up from seven this time last year. Five of the 2020 fatalities occurred in the Denver metro area.

“The rate at which we are seeing fatalities within work zones is alarming,” said CDOT’s Executive Director Shoshana Lew.

“Many of these crashes have been caused by excessive speed. Each construction and maintenance project has a comprehensive traffic control plan to ensure everyone’s safety but we need motorists to slow down and be attentive when they enter a construction zone.”

CDOT has issued the following safety tips to help motorists stay safe while traveling through maintenance and construction work zones:

  • Do not speed in work zones. Obey the posted speed limits.
  • Stay Alert! Expect the unexpected.
  • Watch for workers. Drive with caution.
  • Don’t change lanes unnecessarily.
  • Avoid using mobile devices such as phones while driving in work zones.
  • Turn on headlights so that workers and other drivers can see you.
  • Be especially alert at night while driving in work zones.
  • Expect delays, especially during peak travel times.
  • Allow ample space between you and the car in front of you.
  • Anticipate lane shifts and merge when directed to do so.
  • Be patient!