TxDOT is operating a safety campaign for I-35. (Courtesy photo)

Because I-35 is one of the busiest roads in the state, Texas Department of Transportation is placing special emphasis on the corridor in its Be Safe. Drive Smart. campaign.

Almost half of the Texas population lives near I-35 and drivers are cautioned in the I-35 Safety Campaign of TxDOT to be aware of its many road construction projects.

The My35 website is a connection to the latest news, project and road condition updates, traffic camera views and community meetings along all 588 miles of the Texas 1-35 corridor. The website is a new approach to transportation planning.

In 2018, there were 20,401 traffic crashes along I-35 in Texas, which resulted in 153 deaths and 471 serious injuries. The top causes of fatal crashes along the corridor were speeding and the failure of pedestrians to yield the right of way to vehicles when crossing the busy highway.

Safety around I-35 work zones is a year-round concern, with road construction and maintenance projects occurring up and down the corridor. Drivers traveling through work zones are likely to encounter concrete barriers, slow-moving heavy equipment, lane changes and vehicles that make sudden stops. In 2018, there were 2,791 crashes in work zones on I-35 in Texas, resulting in 19 fatalities and 59 serious injuries.

Motorists are urged to use extra caution when driving I-35 especially through work zones. Drivers should expect the unexpected by staying alert and watching for unexpected changes in speed. Following these basic safety precautions may help to save a life:

• Obey traffic laws.
• Drive a safe speed for traffic, road and weather conditions.
• Don’t tailgate.
• Be cautious when approaching work zones. Workers and heavy equipment may be only a few feet from your vehicle.
• Put your phone away and focus 100% on driving.
• Give trucks plenty of space. Be careful passing and only do so if necessary.
• Never drive under the influence of alcohol or other drugs.
• Move over a lane or slow down to 20 mph below the posted speed limit when lights are flashing on a TxDOT vehicle, law enforcement vehicle, emergency vehicle or a tow truck stopped on the side of the road.
• Always buckle up, all riders, day and night.

From Staff Reports • [email protected]

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