Wayne commissioners urge caution after work zone fatality
Every year National Work Zone Awareness Week, April 21-25, serves as a reminder of the importance of safety for drivers navigating construction zones.
This year the Wayne County Commissioners reflected on the importance of the observance of National Work Zone Awareness Week by holding a solemn moment of silence, paying tribute to Lt. Paul Mickolick of the Town and Country Fire District in West Salem. Mickolick was fatally struck by a motorist while attending to a stranded roadside vehicle.
“The county was really rocked by a terrible accident (involving) one of our very own first responder firefighters from the Town and Country of West Salem,” Wayne County Commissioner Dave McMillen said during a recent session. “There is a deep sadness (throughout) the county. It has been a tough time.”
Commissioner Matt Martin asked for people to slow down and drive cautiously.
“We want to avoid incidents like this,” he said.
Work zone accidents remain a significant safety concern in Wayne County and throughout the state. Since 2020 there have been more than 22,000 work zone crashes, with workers present in nearly 40% of the accidents.
“This stresses the importance of being safe on the road so everyone gets to go home,” Commissioner Jonathan Hofstetter said.
Community members can support work zone safety by staying alert and reducing distractions when driving. Actions such as obeying posted speed limits, following detour signs and being patient with delays can significantly reduce the risk of accidents.
To learn more about National Work Zone Awareness Week, visit www.nwzaw.org.
Dan Starcher is the public communications coordinator for Wayne County.