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Work zone safety

Barrel on the US-10 Clare construction project.
Department of Transportation

Work zone safety

MDOT understands that traveling through work zones can be frustrating. We want you to know that we are working diligently to reduce the impacts that road work has on motorists while delivering smooth and safe roads and bridges.

It is important to remember that road and bridge construction can be dangerous work in unpredictable environments. To ensure the safety of road workers and road users - always slow down, follow all posted signs, and be alert. Work zone safety is everyone’s responsibility!

2025 National Work Zone Awareness Week

April 21-25, 2025

National Work Zone Awareness Week (NWZAW) is an annual spring campaign held at the start of construction season to educate road users and workers about the importance of work zone safety and encourage safe driving through highway work zones. The key message is for drivers to use extra caution in work zones. 

This year’s host: North Carolina Department of Transportation.

#NWZAW #Orange4Safety

Learn more about NWZAW
The 2025 National Work Zone Awareness Week poster with the slogan - Respect the zone so we all get home.
Orange barrels set up in an active work zone.

Fast facts

Learn the facts about work zone injuries, fatalities, and safety.

A male worker with a blue hard hat and an orange ribbon sticker showing support for those worker who have died in work zones.

Media

View videos, social media, resources, and publications.

A Farmington Hills motorcycle police officer doing speed enforcement on southbound I-275 in Metro Detroit.

Laws and penalties

Learn about Michigan work zone laws and how it could cost you.

A work zone with barricades and a road closed ahead sign.

Work zones 101

Travel with us as we explain the different aspects of a work zone.

Know before you go!

Mi Drive is a construction and traffic information website that features real-time traffic and construction information on Michigan's state roads (I, M and US routes).

Keeping Michigan's motorists safe, informed and mobile.

Michigan.gov/Drive

Mi Drive logo

Safe driving tips

Expect changes

Normal speed limits may be reduced, traffic lanes may change, and workers, vehicles, or equipment may enter without warning. 

Minimize distractions

Dedicate your full attention to the road. Avoid using phones or other distracting behaviors while driving in a work zone.

Obey workers and signs

Crews know what is best for moving traffic safely in work zones. Follow all signs and instructions to merge, slow down, or stop.

Don't speed or tailgate

Fines double for speeding in a Michigan work zone, so slow down. Keep a safe distance between you and the vehicle ahead of you.

Pay attention

Vehicles may slow, stop, or change lanes unexpectedly in a work zone. Watch for brake lights and be prepared to react to traffic.

Be patient and calm

Work zones are not there to inconvenience you. They are necessary to improve our roads and make your future drive better.