As the weather gets warmer and more construction projects get underway, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) and the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission (PA Turnpike) hosted an event today calling attention to work zone safety and urged drivers to slow down and pay attention in work zones. April 20-24 is National Work Zone Awareness Week, with the theme “Safe actions save lives.” 

“Even one fatality is one too many,” said PennDOT Executive Deputy Secretary Larry Shifflet. “Last year, there were 12 fatalities in Pennsylvania work zones – and most of the deaths were drivers. Please slow down and pay attention in work zones. Your actions matter and it could save a life – maybe even your own.” 

According to PennDOT data, in 2025 there were 1,393 work zone crashes, resulting in 12 fatalities. One of the most frequent contributing factors in fatal work zone crashes was driving too fast for conditions. In addition to crash data from police reports, PennDOT monitors work zone safety with internal reports. In 2025, there were 428 reported intrusions in PennDOT work zones. Of those work zone intrusions, 16 resulted in injuries to PennDOT employees. 

The PennDOT and PA Turnpike worker memorials were on display during the event to pay tribute to those who have lost their lives while improving and maintaining Pennsylvania’s infrastructure. Since 1970, PennDOT has lost 93 workers in the line of duty. The PA Turnpike has lost 45 workers since 1940. Click here for the press release.