WEST GARDINER -- Maine transportation officials are urging motorists to remain vigilant and drive safely through work zones ahead of National Work Zone Awareness Week, April 21-25.

Citing data from the Associated General Contractors of America, officials said crashes in work zones had increased 55% from the prior year.

There were 44 motor vehicle crashes in Maine in active work zones last year.

“Safety on our roads is everyone’s responsibility,” said Dan Goodman, public affairs manager for AAA Northern New England. “It’s not about protecting drivers, it’s about protecting passengers, pedestrians, emergency responders, toll operators and roadside workers. Every person on or near the road deserves to get home safely.” 

Transportation officials said when approaching an active work zone to slow down, read what the message board or signs are saying and drive safely.

“Behind that concrete barrier is someone’s mother, father, son, daughter, uncle, brother or sister,” said Kelly Flagg, executive director of the Associated General Contractors of Maine. “Someone is waiting to see them when that shift is over.”