AAA Investigates Options for Roadside Worker Safety in Oregon

EASTERN OREGON – (Information from the American Automobiles Association) The AAA recently conducted two studies into deaths and injuries of roadside workers struck by automobiles and the best ways to encourage drivers to move lanes. According to the AAA, roughly 10 were killed in Oregon from 2016-2020 from crashes/automobile strikes while working outside a disabled vehicle. The AAA also surveyed road maintenance workers, tow workers and emergency responders, finding that, of those surveyed, 60% reported near misses and 15% had survived being hit. 

In brief, when looking at how to alert drivers/make drivers move a lane over, the AAA studies found that VMS (Variable message signs) increased the odds of drivers giving room by 95%. Lights and beacons fixed to tow trucks resulted in a 25% increase in lane movement during the day and 41% at night. The addition of flares further caused a notable increase in lane movement at night, while traffic cones caused a slight increase in lane movement during day and night hours.

In addition to its primary findings, the AAA also has some basic tips for drivers in how to avoid striking roadside workers:

• “Remain alert, avoid distractions and focus on the task of driving.

• Keep an eye out for situations where emergency vehicles, tow trucks, utility service vehicles or disabled vehicles are stopped on the side of the road.

• When you see these situations, slow down and if possible, move one lane over and away from the people and vehicles stopped at the side of the road.

• If you are driving, don’t get impaired. If you’re impaired, don’t drive.

The full release, including fact sheets, can be found at AAA: How to get Drivers to Slow Down, Move Over? | AAA Oregon/Idaho

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