Sadly, we are approaching that deadly time of year when someone must go out into traffic and repair the potholes caused by winter, salt and plows. Unfortunately, the safety of the crews is often compromised by the pursuit of productivity and expediency. No one should ever be forced or allowed to work in traffic without advance warning signs, reflective apparel and a live flagger. Far better is to place an obstruction vehicle such as a dump truck or bumper truck between the oncoming traffic and workers. No one should die over a pothole.
Virginia State Police have charged a North Carolina woman in the death of a VDOT contractor who was fatally struck by a vehicle while working along Interstate 95 on Saturday.
Samantha C. Hughes, 27, of Wilmington was charged with reckless driving after her Honda Civic hit Dustin Michael Warden, 25, of Carson at mile marker 35 on southbound I-95 in Prince George County. Authorities said Hughes took her eyes off the road before the collision.
VDOT released a statement on the incident Saturday: “Our VDOT family is deeply saddened by the loss of a contract worker this morning on Interstate 95 in Prince George. Please keep this worker’s family, friends and colleagues in your thoughts during this difficult time. Safety is VDOT’s number one priority. We’re working with our partners in law enforcement .”
