The Wisconsin Department of Transportation is hosting an event in Appleton on August 15, 2024, to highlight the dangers of distracted driving in construction zones. PC: Fox 11 Online

APPLETON, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — With construction expected on Interstate 41 between Appleton and Green Bay for the next six years, authorities are reminding motorists to use safe driving techniques in construction zones.

On Thursday, the Wisconsin Department of Transportation highlighted the dangers and consequences of distracted driving in construction zones. The event was held in collaboration with the Federal Highway Administration, local police and emergency responders, community leaders and industry partners.

According to a press release, there were 2,100 crashes in Wisconsin’s work zones in 2023, resulting in nine fatalities. Authorities say speeding, tailgating and inattentive driving are the leading causes of work zone crashes in the Badger State.

Poor driving behavior in work zones endangers the lives of workers and drivers.

Rebecca Burkel, WisDOT’s department director, said these deaths aren’t just about numbers.

“They are people, they are families, they are friends … These deaths affect people and their families. This is very important and very serious,” Burkel said.

“Our guys deal with these things every day in work zones. They’re very close to the flow of traffic and drivers really have to take that into account,” Burkel added. “Drive slowly, don’t get distracted, don’t talk on your cell phone, keep your seatbelt buckled, look around and pay attention.”

The major expansion of I-41 on the 23-mile stretch from Wisconsin Avenue in Grand Chute to Scheuring Road in De Pere is scheduled to be completed in 2030. The interstate will be widened from four to six lanes, which officials say will reduce congestion and increase safety.

“The lanes in construction areas and their layout often change daily, so (drivers) need to slow down and pay attention to what is happening,” said Lt. Luke Newman of the Wisconsin State Patrol.

According to WisDOT, you can help keep your roadways safe by following these tips:

• Drive carefully. Be courteous, avoid distractions and obey posted speed limits.
• Turn off your phone while driving. Texting while driving is prohibited nationwide, and using a handheld mobile device is prohibited in work zones.
• Give way to emergency responders. Give way or slow down when emergency vehicles are parked at the side of the road with their hazard lights flashing. This includes police and fire vehicles, ambulances, tow trucks and highway maintenance vehicles. In addition, the use of mobile phones in the vicinity of these vehicles is prohibited by law.
• Fasten your seatbelt and put your phone away.