Construction Worker Dies on Kentucky Interstate in Single Vehicle Collision, Kentucky

The following report is the product of our Cooperative State partner and is presented here in its original unedited form from the state. The findings and conclusions in this report are those of the individual Cooperative State partner and do not necessarily reflect the views or policy of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health.

SUMMARY

On Friday, September 27, 2019, a 42-year-old male construction worker (the victim) was traveling on a major, four-lane interstate en route to an out-of-state destination to pick up supplies when he failed to notice that traffic had stopped due to an earlier collision. As a result, the victim’s vehicle struck the rear of a semi-trailer.

CONTRIBUTING FACTORS
Key contributing factors identified in this investigation include:

• Advanced warning signage
• Fatigue related work schedule
• Failing to wear seat belt.

RECOMMENDATIONS
Kentucky FACE investigator concluded that, to help prevent similar occurrences, employers should:

• Warning devices should be utilized to alert motorist of slow or stopped traffic.
• Employers should consider installing driver facing cameras to monitor seat belt usage.
• Drivers should obtain adequate rest prior to operating a vehicle.
• Employers should be aware of and avoid work schedules that may contribute to worker fatigue.
• Employers should educate drivers on the dangers of driving while fatigued.

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