Work zone crashes and fatalities on Alabama roads are up, according to the Alabama Department of Transportation. As National Work Zone Awareness Week is observed April 8-12, ALDOT is reminding motorists to slow down and stay alert in work zones.

Road construction and other improvements are taking place across the state “to meet the demands of increased traffic and economic growth in Alabama,” ALDOT reports. This year’s National Work Zone Awareness Week theme, “Drive Like You Work Here,” reminds drivers that everyone is responsible for work zone safety.

In 2017 there were 3,158 work zone crashes in Alabama, resulting in 31 fatalities and 963 injuries. This is an increase compared to 2016, when there were 2,962 work zone crashes, resulting in 19 fatalities and 954 injuries.

According to ALDOT, national statistics show four out of every five of those killed are motorists.

ALDOT offers these tips for driving safely in work zones:

• Check ALGOTraffic.com to locate construction work zones and allow extra time to navigate those areas.
• Don’t drive distracted by texting, eating or other activities. Look for highway workers, reduced speed limits and narrow driving lanes.
• Don’t drive beyond the posted speed limit through the work zone.
• Keep a safe distance from the vehicle ahead.