WisDOT, Langlade County officials urge drivers to stay alert in work zones

Release date: August 13, 2025

More than 2,150 crashes were recorded in Wisconsin work zones in 2024, resulting in 10 deaths (including two construction workers) and more than 750 injuries, according to data gathered by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT). WisDOT Deputy Secretary Scott Lawry today joined Wisconsin State Patrol, Langlade County Highway Department and industry partners at a news conference in Elcho to stress the importance of safe, responsible driving in work zones.

“Together with our industry partners, we are delivering hundreds of highway projects each year to improve our communities and the lives of people throughout Wisconsin,” WisDOT Deputy Secretary Lawry said. “These construction workers spend countless hours making our roads and bridges better. While work zones may cause a temporary inconvenience, the consequences of your actions in those work zones can last forever. Please slow down and pay attention – respect the zone, so we can all get home.”

Speeding, tailgating and distracted driving are the leading causes of work zone crashes in Wisconsin. State law prohibits texting while driving on any road. It is also illegal to use a hand-held mobile device in work zones and in areas surrounding emergency response vehicles with flashing lights. Motorists are urged to buckle up and put their phone down when driving.

“When approaching a work zone, slow down, concentrate on your driving, read signs and be prepared,” said Brian Braun, Langlade County Highway Commissioner.

Today’s event held along the US 45 reconstruction project in Elcho continues WisDOT’s season-long campaign to increase work zone safety messaging across the state. WisDOT engages with county highway partners, Wisconsin Counties Association, Wisconsin Transportation Builders Association and others to promote safe driving in work zones.

How can people help improve work zone safety?

• Drive safely. Be courteous, avoid distractions and follow posted speed limits.
• Park the phone when driving. Texting while driving is illegal statewide and talking on a hand-held mobile device is illegal in work zones.
• Give space to emergency responders. Move over or slow down for emergency vehicles stopped along a highway with their warning lights flashing. That includes police and fire vehicles, ambulances, tow trucks and highway maintenance vehicles. In addition, state law restricts use of a cell phone in areas surrounding those vehicles.
• Buckle Up, Phone Down. Take the pledge at wisconsindot.gov/BUPD.