CARLISLE, PA — The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) and the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission have introduced a statewide training initiative. The New Driver Work Zone Safety Program was officially launched at Carlisle High School, coinciding with National Teen Driver Safety Week, emphasizing the importance of safe driving practices among young motorists.
Developed in collaboration with the PA Turnpike, this program aims to educate new drivers about work zone laws and safety protocols through an interactive 35-minute virtual course. Available in both English and Spanish, the course is designed to engage participants with videos, infographics, and real-world scenarios, supplemented by knowledge checks and testimonials that highlight the critical nature of work zone safety. This initiative is particularly targeted at addressing the risks associated with teen driving, as statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicate that drivers aged 16-19 are significantly more prone to fatal crashes compared to their older counterparts.
“PennDOT wants you to be safe whether you’re working on our roadways or driving on them, and we take many precautions to keep work zones safe for everyone,” commented PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll, emphasizing the agency’s commitment to roadway safety.
The program emerges in response to alarming data: over 40% of work zone crashes in Pennsylvania result in fatalities or injuries, with more than 1,400 incidents recorded annually. By focusing on new drivers, the program seeks to impart essential safety knowledge and practices that can mitigate such risks. Craig Shuey, Chief Operating Officer of the PA Turnpike, noted, “Our roadway is only as safe as the drivers who use it, and helping them understand the importance of slowing down and paying attention in work zones is critical.”
Highlighting the program’s innovative approach, Pennsylvania has drawn inspiration from Oklahoma, the first state to mandate a work zone safety course for new drivers. The Pennsylvania initiative was supported by a $50,000 grant from the Federal Highway Administration’s State Transportation Innovation Council Incentive Program, showcasing a commitment to leveraging federal resources for state-specific safety improvements.
With the support of educational authorities like Dr. Khalid Mumin, Secretary of the Department of Education, the program is positioned to make a significant impact. “Knowledge is power, and this practical, experiential learning opportunity will help new drivers keep themselves—and others—safe while they’re on the road,” stated Mumin.
The launch of this program marks a pivotal step in PennDOT and the PA Turnpike’s ongoing efforts to enhance work zone safety awareness. It complements existing initiatives such as the Work Zone Speed Safety Camera program, which targets speed violations in work zones. By equipping new drivers with the necessary tools and knowledge, Pennsylvania aims to reduce the incidence of work zone crashes and foster a safer driving environment for all road users.
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