Keeping Victorians safe around road sites

You're not alone if you’ve noticed an increase in road fatalities across Australia.

283 individuals lost their lives on Victorian roads in 2024, with more than half taking place in regional Victoria. Low-range speeding and acts of non-compliance were significant contributors to the state’s road toll, along with failure to obey road signs, distractions and lower-level drink driving.

Approximately 1.5% of road fatalities are estimated to occur in work zones, which indicates that as the road toll increases, so too do the dangers of working on our roads.

Road workers already face the challenges of operating heavy machinery, physical demands of the job and unpredictable weather conditions. Add in the additional challenge of Victorians finding new ways to blur the lines of acceptable road behaviour and it’s becoming increasingly dangerous for Victorians who are working on our roads to do their jobs safely.  

So, how can we make the roads safer around construction sites?

Road works ahead: Why drivers should follow road work safety measures

The speed limit indicated on roadwork signs is legally enforceable, regardless of the situation.

It’s also common knowledge that you should slow down around road construction sites regardless of whether a speed limit is posted. However, many Australians view road work speed limits as optional rather than mandatory. Failure to adhere to the speed limits in a road work area not only may expose you to a fine/ loss of demerit points, but it will also put the worker’s safety and lives at risk.

Road construction sites often feature restricted paths, road closures, or debris on the road, posing hazards to both drivers and construction workers. Additionally, bicycle lanes are often closed near construction sites, requiring cyclists to share the same lane as vehicles. It’s crucial to be aware of cyclists on the road, especially during road works.

Following the rules imposed by road construction, including speed limit enforcement, is essential for ensuring the safety of everyone on the road.

Staying safe working on the road

As an employee working on the road, it’s important to always be aware of your surroundings. If you do get injured on the road as part of your work, you may be eligible to make a workplace injury claim. Our dedicated workers' compensation lawyers can help you get the compensation you deserve.

To help stay safe working on the road, don’t assume that drivers will follow construction zone safety signs, as often they don’t.

It’s important to identify potential hazards and be alert if anything goes wrong. Addressing hazards by reporting safety concerns directly to your manager can allow your employer to make the necessary amendments to provide a safe environment for everyone on the road.

What your employer can do to ensure your workplace is safe

Your employer has a duty of care to ensure that your workplace is safe and follows the relevant WHS (Work Health and Safety) regulations in Australia and Safe Work Australia guidelines. If you are driving a vehicle as part of your work, your employer will need to ensure that the vehicle is without risks to your health and safety.

Road work safety involves structured practices, signage, and equipment designed to protect everyone within a temporary work zone. If your workplace is within a construction site on the road, your employer will need to implement safety measures to ensure you can conduct your work safely.

This can include, for example:

• Safety cones to increase your workspace, and clearly set safety boundaries
• Road signage and speed limit enforcement to alert drivers of work being conducted
• Speed limits around worksites to reduce dangerous conditions
• PPE, and high-visibility clothing to protect construction workers from injury
• Adequate lighting for night-time or low-visibility work
• Clear communication channels for reporting hazards and unsafe conditions.

By implementing these safety measures, your employer can create a safer and more secure work environment for everyone on the road.

Getting help with a road accident claim

If you or a loved one have been injured on the road, we can help.

Use our free claim check tool to find out if you have a road injury claim, or contact us today to speak with one of our expert road accident lawyers.

Our Victorian Road Accident Lawyers are highly skilled and experienced at getting the best outcomes for our clients. The initial consultation is free and without obligation. Time limits do apply, so don’t delay. If you or a loved one have been injured on the road, we can help.