Work Zone Safety

Drivers and passengers in motor vehicles account for nearly 95 percent of the fatalities in work zones, and 96 percent of the injuries. The number of traffic-related deaths in Illinois increased by 1.1 percent from 2016 to 2017, equating to the loss of 1,090 people in 998 crashes. On average, 4,500-5,500 crashes occur in Illinois work zones every year. In 2017, there were a total of 5,423 work zone motor vehicle crashes, resulting in 1,435 injuries and 30 fatalities.

IRTBA works diligently to ensure Illinois' transportation network is safe for all users - including motorists, pedestrians, construction and maintenance workers, and passengers. Our Construction & Work Zone Safety Committee provides knowledge transfer of safety matters to members through training opportunities of value and relevance, review of OSHA regulations, and member citations to provide assistance resolving safety matters and improving safety throughout the transportation industry. IRTBA provides safety tips and resources accessible to members of the public here on our webpage.

Illinois law prohibits the use of hand-held cellphones, texting, or using other electronic communications while operating a motor vehicle.

Hands-free technology is permitted for individuals over the age of 19. However, this technology can still be a dangerous transaction. The Secretary of State recommends that if you must take a phone call, even with hands-free technology, it is recommended that you pull to the side of the road before making a call.

It is illegal to talk on the phone – even while using a hands-free device – in a work zone or school zone. The only time cell phone use is permitted by Illinois drivers is:

• While the vehicle is in neutral or park due to obstructions
• While parked on the shoulder of a roadway
• To report an emergency

Workers do not need to be present for work zone laws to apply - uneven pavement, changing
traffic patterns, narrower lanes, and heavy equipment frequently moving in and out of work zones require reduced posted speed limits for the benefit of motorist and worker safety.

Illinois uses Photo Speed Enforcement when workers are present.

Drivers must abide by Scott’s Law, which requires them to yield to slow down and if possible, change lanes when approaching ANY vehicle with its hazards on, not just emergency and maintenance vehicles.