As Idaho’s construction season kicks into gear, transportation officials are urging drivers to exercise greater caution in work zones. The annual Work Zone Safety Awareness Week, part of a nationwide initiative, is underway to spotlight the importance of safe driving around road crews.

“Driving cautiously in work zones helps families,” said Dan McElhinney, Chief Deputy and Chief Operations Officer for the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD). “Travelers, workers, and their loved ones all benefit when drivers reduce crash risks by driving slower and staying alert.”

Each year, road construction zones across Idaho become temporary workspaces for a range of professionals—from ITD staff and private contractors to utility workers, law enforcement, and emergency responders. These zones typically feature reduced speed limits, lane shifts, cones, signage, and other indicators that drivers must navigate safely.

Rear-end collisions remain the most frequent type of work zone crash, according to ITD data, largely due to drivers being distracted or failing to slow down. Between 2019 and 2023, Idaho saw more than 3,400 work zone crashes, with 30 resulting in fatalities—all involving people inside vehicles.

In response to these sobering statistics, ITD is reinforcing basic safety tips for motorists: check road conditions ahead of travel via Idaho 511, reduce speed in construction zones, avoid distractions like phones, and maintain safe distances from other vehicles. Drivers are also reminded to obey the state’s Move Over Law, which requires slowing down or switching lanes when approaching emergency vehicles and road crews with flashing lights.

“Awareness campaigns like this one are crucial for saving lives,” McElhinney added. “The simple act of slowing down and paying attention can prevent tragedies and keep everyone safer on Idaho’s roads.”

Construction season in Idaho typically peaks during spring and summer months due to favorable weather. In North-Central Idaho, drivers can expect to encounter active construction sites at:

• US-95 from Thorn Creek Road to Moscow
• US-95 Ferdinand Northbound Passing Lane Project
• SH-11 Quartz Creek Bridge near Pierce

Motorists are encouraged to plan ahead and be patient during delays, as crews work to upgrade infrastructure and maintain road safety. Ongoing updates and travel alerts are available through idaho511.com or the ITD’s main website at itd.idaho.gov.

“Construction zones aren’t just traffic inconveniences—they're workplaces for real people,” said McElhinney. “Every sign and cone is a reminder to slow down and protect those who are building and maintaining our highways.”

Originally reported by Daily Fly.