What is the most common cause of crashes in work zones?

Carelessness or speeding is the most common cause of crashes in work zones because drivers often underestimate the dangers present in these areas. Work zones typically have a variety of hazards, including construction equipment, workers in close proximity to moving vehicles, and altered road conditions. When drivers exceed the speed limit or fail to pay attention to their surroundings, the likelihood of an accident significantly increases.

In work zones, safety measures like reduced speed limits and increased signage are put in place to protect both workers and drivers. However, if drivers do not adhere to these regulations or become distracted, they may not react appropriately to changing conditions, leading to potentially serious collisions. Ensuring that drivers remain vigilant and comply with posted rules is crucial in minimizing crash risk in these high-risk areas.

While factors like weather, inadequate signage, and driver fatigue can contribute to accidents, they are not as prevalent as the careless actions and speeding of drivers, which are seen as direct violations of safe driving practices expected in work zones.