Milton Keynes Council urges drivers to take care after increase in near misses at road work sites

Staff at road work sites in Milton Keynes are increasingly at risk from drivers who ignore safety signs and speed limits.

Milton Keynes Council is urging drivers to take care at road works following an increase in near misses over the last few months.

New data shows that 120 incidents have been recorded this year so far; up from 113 near misses reported on MK roads plast year.

In many of these cases, the drivers were breaking the speed limit in areas where roadworks were taking place. Speed restrictions, diversion signs and cones are in place at roadwork sites to manage traffic and to ensure the safety of those working in the area.

Both MK Council and Ringway take site safety very seriously and all staff on site are clearly visible to drivers in high visibility reflective clothing.

Road equipment has also been damaged by careless driving including a newly installed light column which had to be repaired after being hit by a speeding car and new bus shelter was damaged when a van reversed into it and drove away.

“Loss of life, or serious injury, is a very real threat when motorists speed through roadworks trying to save a few seconds off their journey time,” said Cllr Martin Gowans, Cabinet member for Highways.

“Road workers maintain and repair the road network all year round in bad weather and frequently during unsociable hours. The road is their workplace and they should be protected and safe to do their job without the risk of harm or injury.”

“There are over 2,000 road accidents in the UK every year where people are injured at or near road works including those working on the road. Our message is very clear ‘when you see roadworks, reduce your speed, drive with more care and keep road workers safe,” he added.