BOISE–As construction season ramps up across the state, the Idaho Transportation Department is joining transportation agencies nationwide in recognizing Work Zone Safety Awareness Week, April 21–25. This annual effort is a timely reminder to Idahoans that driving safely in work zones protects everyone on the road, including the crews working alongside fast-moving traffic.
“Driving cautiously in work zones helps families,” said Dan McElhinney, ITD Chief Deputy and Chief Operations Officer. “Travelers, workers, and their loved ones all benefit when drivers reduce crash risks by driving slower and staying alert for traffic cones and guiding signage. Our employees are working hard to improve roadways and quality of life for Idahoans. Driving safely near road work is one of the best ways to support that effort.”
Work zones are active job sites where ITD crews, contractors, utility workers, law enforcement, and tow truck operators are performing critical maintenance and construction—often in unpredictable conditions. These areas are marked by signs, barriers, cones, and sometimes narrowed lanes or uneven surfaces. Rear-end crashes are the most common type of work zone collision, typically caused by distracted or impatient driving.
From 2019 to 2023, Idaho saw more than 3,400 work zone crashes, with 30 fatalities, all of whom were vehicle occupants. This stark reality is often overlooked: drivers and passengers are most at risk in work zone crashes, not just road workers.
To stay safe in work zones, ITD urges drivers to check Idaho 511 before traveling, slow down, stay alert, avoid distractions, and maintain safe following distances, especially around large vehicles. Always watch for workers and flaggers, buckle up, and follow Idaho’s Move Over Law when passing emergency or response vehicles with flashing lights.
Respect the zone so we ALL get home.
For updates and more information, visit Idaho 511 or itd.idaho.gov.