Caltrans is out with new billboards reminding drivers to be alert when passing through work zones. The billboards feature the children and grandchildren of California highway workers asking you to watch out for their family members with agency who work on the state's roadways.
The public education campaign also calls attention to California's Move Over law, which requires all drivers to move over a lane if safe to do so, or slow down when they see amber flashing lights on Caltrans vehicles, or other emergency vehicles and tow trucks.
"Our children depend on your safe driving all day, every day," said Elissa Konove, Undersecretary of the California State Transportation Agency. "This campaign aims to protect highway workers who work inches from traffic daily to maintain our state’s transportation system."
Since 1921, 189 Caltrans employees have been killed on the job, according to the agency.
"We live in a fast-paced world, but need to slow down on the road, particularly when highway workers are out trying to do their job," Office of Traffic Safety Director Rhonda Craft said. "This campaign is intended to remind drivers of the dangers highway workers face every day and be mindful of their presence."
The campaign is funded with highway maintenance funds and a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.