In Texas, National Work Zone Awareness Week also marks the beginning of the Texas Department of Transportation's annual "Be Safe, Drive Smart" campaign.
For the occasion, TxDOT officials in Anthony—a West Texas town of about 5,200 people—assembled large sculptures made entirely of orange traffic barrels that were hit by drivers. Among the sculptures were a giant snake and a T-Rex, and they can be found at the Anthony, Texas travel information center.
In 2021, close to 200 people have died in car crashes related to construction zones, which is an increase of nearly 33%.
TxDOT's "Move Over, Slow Down" law requires drivers to shift over a lane or reduce to 20 mph when approaching emergency vehicles, construction areas, tow trucks, or utility vehicles with flashing lights activated. Failure to comply could cost drivers up to $2,000 in fines.
------------
Sources: KPRC 2 Houston, Texas Department of Transportation
