Professional drivers and highway workers have a special relationship. They both earn their living on the road. However, one group is more vulnerable.

“Any time you pass highway workers on a Missouri roadway – whether it’s a long-term lane closure, a moving operation or shoulder work – your safety and the safety of those workers depend on your focus and attention,” said MoDOT Director Patrick McKenna. “Buckle up, put your phone down, slow down and stay alert. Lives are at stake in work zones.”

In 2021, 17 people died in work zones, including three MoDOT employees, one of whom was expecting her first child.

In addition, an unprecedented 61 crashes with MoDOT protective vehicles occurred. These crashes are almost always a result of driver distraction and/or driving too fast for the conditions. While crash-absorbing protective vehicles undoubtedly save lives and prevent injuries, those involved do not always escape unscathed. In the past four years, 37 people suffered injuries and two died following crashes involving crash-absorbing protective vehicles.

Make smart, safe driving choices behind the wheel. Move over. Mind your speed. Be aware of changing traffic conditions. Obey signs. Merge politely. Work with us.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration announced a final rule implementing a new alternative vision standard for commercial motor vehicle drivers. The new regulation allows drivers normally requiring a vision exemption, to now be physically qualified under specified conditions. The alternative vision standard will replace the current vision exemption program. The new rule took effect on March 22, 2022.

CLICK HERE to learn more about the new vision qualification standard.