TRAFFIC SAFETY: Drivers cautioned about work zones

After a Department of Transportation worker was struck and killed on the job last month, The New York State Police are reminding drivers to be careful while driving through work zones.

Kevin Forsyth, 46, of Ransomville, died July 23 of injuries he suffered when he was struck by a car while working in the Town of Niagara.

State police and several area law enforcement agencies held a press conference Friday morning at the Hamburg Fairgrounds to emphasize their commitment to work zone safety.

“Troopers, deputies and officers of all agencies encourage motorists to respect the workers that are doing their jobs in our work zones, as we have stepped up enforcement of the laws related to vehicular traffic in these areas,” State Police Major Christopher Cummings said. “Ignoring this request may result in serious or even deadly consequences.”

The state DOT is joining forces with the state police to increase awareness.

“With the cooperation of alert, thoughtful drivers and enforcement assistance from the New York State Police, we are working to keep our work zones safe, enabling all of us to return home safely to our families at the end of the day,” Alan Taylor, regional director for the DOT, said. “One death in a work zone is simply one too many.”

Fines for speeding are doubled in work zones, according to the Work Zone Safety Act of 2005.

Drivers who are convicted of two or more speeding violations in a work zone will face license suspension. Every conviction of speeding in a work zone carries an additional surcharge of $50, on top of any other fines.

The surcharges collected are deposited in a special fund established by the state comptroller to fund highway construction and maintenance safety education programs.

Cummings said troopers will be positioned throughout work zones to catch speeders.

“Unfortunately, too many New Yorkers ignore the dangers associated with reckless driving and speeding in and around work sites, issuing citations is a tough but effective reminder,” he said.