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The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) recently issued a press release about their event commemorating 191 fallen highway workers. They just held the 33rd annual Workers Memorial Ceremony to honor those who have lost their lives working on California roadways. There were 191 roadway workers commemorated during the ceremony, including two people who were killed last year.  

In addition to honoring fallen workers, officials with Caltrans hope these events raise awareness about the dangers of work zone safety. Safety advocates are calling on drivers to “Be Work Zone Alert” and to “Move Over” when they see the flashing amber lights of a roadside work vehicle.  

Honoring Fallen Highway Workers  

At the ceremony, there were 189 orange traffic cones designed in a diamond “caution sign” shape. There were two additional cones (representing the two lives lost last year) added during the ceremony. Finally, there was a black one in the middle representing all of the people who have been killed while working on California highways, including contractors, tow truck drivers, CHP officers and other emergency responders.  

Highway workers deserve to get home safe to their families each day. If you’re approaching or driving through a work zone, make sure you’re alert and vigilant. Workers could be just a few feet or even several inches from busy traffic. There might be lane changes you need to pay close attention to as well. Be alert, drive carefully and make sure you’re not texting or engaging in any other forms of distracted driving.  

Move Over for Flashing Amber Lights  

Additionally, if you see flashing amber lights on a vehicle beside the roadway, make sure to Move Over. It’s the law. If you can’t move over, slow down to a safe speed and move over or pass carefully when it is safe to do so. The move over law isn’t just about law enforcement and rescue vehicles, it also applies to vehicles with amber flashing lights.  

If you have been injured or if you have lost a loved one in a work zone accident in San Diego or anywhere in Southern California, contact the skilled and proven team at Harris Personal Injury Lawyers, Inc. at 1.800.GO.HARRIS for a free case consultation today.