Even though traffic on Alabama’s roadways may not be as bustling as it would have been if not for the coronavirus pandemic, the risk for work zone crashes still exists.

In an effort to create further awareness among motorists, the Alabama Department of Transportation has embraced April 20-24 as National Work Zone Awareness Week.

As part of the initiative ALDOT reminds drivers to slow down and be alert when driving through work zones.

“During the coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic, when the shipment of essential goods is vital, ALDOT employees are working hard to advance the maintenance and construction that’s required for our roads,” Drive Safe Alabama Coordinator Allison Green said.

ALDOT stressed it is important drivers think safety first not just this week but throughout the year.

“Today and every day, we ask drivers to drive alert around work zones and slow down to make sure the people taking care of our roads get home safely,” Green said.

According to a press release, the theme of this year’s awareness week is “safe work zones for all.” The theme was created to remind drivers that their approach plays a major role in the safety of road maintenance personnel.

However, ALDOT warned of the misconception that the majority of those killed in work zone crashes are workers, when in fact, national statistics show that four out of five deaths are motorists in those instances despite workers being the most vulnerable to injury and death.

Texting, eating or anything else that would result in taking one’s hands off the wheel cause drivers to be distracted and not alert.

Slowing down to the posted speed limit in work zones is an effective way to avoid a possible deadly crash.

While maintaining a safe speed, keeping a safe distance from the vehicle in front can also diminish the probability of an accident.

For more information about National Work Zone Awareness Week, visit www.ops.fhwa.dot.gov. Join the national conversation by using #NWZAW or #DriveSafeAL.