National Work Zone Awareness Week

WHEREAS, National Work Zone Awareness Week was established on December 15, 1999; and

WHEREAS, in 2011, the state of Alabama recorded 3,193 crashes in highway work zones resulting in 21 fatalities and 853 injuries; and

WHEREAS, work zone crashes and fatalities have decreased nationally since 2007, but the state of Alabama has seen an increase in work zone crashes and fatalities; and

WHEREAS, nationally, four out of five people killed in work zones are drivers or passengers; and

WHEREAS, the primary reasons for work zone-related crashes include alcohol, speeding and distracted driving; and

WHEREAS, drivers, passengers and highway workers share the risks in work zones; and

WHEREAS, state agencies, road builders, contractors and local officials are joining together statewide to heighten awareness encouraging motorists to drive safely through work zones:

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Robert Bentley, Governor of Alabama, do hereby proclaim April 23 through April 27, 2012, as

National Work Zone Awareness Week

in the state of Alabama, and encourage all citizens to consider the safety of motorists and workers in work zones this week and every day.

Given Under My Hand and the Great Seal of the Office of the Governor at the State Capitol in the City of Montgomery on the 21st day of March 2012.

      

Governor Robert Bentley