A construction worker was struck by a vehicle in a work zone in St. George, prompting police to warn motorists to slow down and pay closer attention when driving through construction areas.
.jpg)
The incident occurred Wednesday along Valley View Drive while a utility construction crew was working in a designated construction zone.
According to the St. George Police Department, the worker was hit after a driver entered the marked work zone.
Jeremy Needles explained what happened leading up to the crash.
"He struck one of the cones, went into the construction area, and struck one of the workers," Needles said.
Fortunately, the worker escaped serious harm and suffered only minor injuries such as bumps and bruises. Authorities said the individual did not require hospitalization following the incident.
Police also reported that the driver involved in the crash did not pass a sobriety test.
Despite the relatively minor injuries, officers say the situation could have resulted in far more serious consequences, especially considering the risks construction workers face when operating near traffic.
Following the crash, law enforcement officials emphasized the importance of respecting traffic controls, warning signs and barriers placed in work zones.
Needles said emergency vehicles and roadside crews use warning lights and traffic control devices for a reason.
"Police, fire, EMS, tow truck drivers, roadside workers? Those lights are on for a reason," Needles said.
"Our drivers are so impatient to get nowhere, right? They're impatient to get home … whatever it is, slow down," Needles said.
At the time of the incident, the construction crew had been pouring concrete around a manhole along Valley View Drive. The work area was clearly marked with safety cones and barriers, and a temporary speed limit of 25 miles per hour had been posted.
Some nearby residents say dangerous driving in the area is not unusual.
Kord Johnson, who lives near the work zone, said he has seen several risky driving situations along the road.
"I wouldn't say we have terrible drivers, but I think there is, you know, kind of some carelessness going, you know what I mean, sometimes," Johnson said.
Johnson also described experiencing several close calls while traveling in the area.
"I used to ride an e-bike around, and honestly, I almost got hit so many times," Johnson said.
After the incident, police increased patrols along Valley View Drive to monitor traffic and improve safety around the construction site.
Johnson said he noticed a stronger law enforcement presence the following morning.
"This morning I was taking my girlfriend to work down there and I saw four people pulled over," Johnson said.
Officers say they hope the incident serves as a reminder for drivers to remain cautious and respectful of workers operating near roadways.
When asked what message he hopes drivers take away from the situation, Needles offered a simple response.
"Respect," Needles said. "A little respect goes a long way."
Originally reported by Chris Reed in Fox 13 Now.
