Annapolis, MD - April 17, 2026 - National Work Zone Awareness Week (NWZAW) will be observed April 20–24, 2026, with this year’s theme, “Safe actions save lives.” NWZAW has been recognized for more than 20 years as a public awareness campaign to remind all road users that they play a vital role in keeping motorists, pedestrians and roadway workers safe.
According to the National Work Zone Safety Information Clearinghouse, there were 818 fatal crashes in work zones resulting in 899 deaths in 2023. Additionally, 176 pedestrians lost their lives in work zones. The majority of those killed were motorists, passengers and pedestrians, underscoring the critical importance of heightened awareness and responsible behavior in and around work zones.
“Every driver, passenger and pedestrian has a responsibility to stay alert and practice safe behaviors in work zones,” said Amanda Rush, DPW Safety Program Manager. “By making safe choices behind the wheel and on the road, we can help ensure that everyone - especially roadway workers - returns home safely each day.”
As part of NWZAW, DPW encourages community residents to participate in Go Orange Day occurring April 22 by wearing orange to show support for work zone safety. Community members are also invited to observe a moment of silence on April 24 to honor those who have lost their lives in work zone incidents. Participants are encouraged to share photos on social media using the hashtags #DPWandYou, #NWZAW and #GoOrange4Safety to help amplify the message.