Worker injured when vehicle drives into construction zone

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — A construction worker is recovering at home after being hit by an SUV early Tuesday morning.

The crash happened at the intersection of Hague Road and 82nd Street around 7:15 a.m.

Police say an SUV careened into the construction zone. They say the driver may have had a medical emergency.

But in this so-called construction season officials are urging you to use caution.

The man injured worked for E & B Paving out of Noblesville. A spokesman for the company says he was treated for bruises and scrapes and released from the hospital.

The company was doing concrete work at the site.

Police said the SUV hit a work truck and then crashed into the worker.

The truck was blocking construction crews from traffic, and the spokesman said the vehicle likely saved the worker’s life.

IMPD has not said what medical condition lead to the crash.

While this accident was likely unpreventable, INDOT says others are.

“The vast majority of work zone tragedies are preventable and we can all do our part,” said Nathan Riggs with INDOT.

This work zone is a city project, but with more than 1,000 construction projects scheduled around the state between now and the Fall, officials are asking for your cooperation.

“As the weather is warming up — as more and more construction zones are going to be popping up on interstates, state highways, county highways, city streets — all drivers need to be paying attention, being alert,” Riggs said.

According to state data in 2014, 14 people were killed and more than 400 were injured in INDOT work zones.

Officials suggest you obey the posted speed limit, don’t drive while distracted, keep a safe distance between you and cars on all sides and follow flaggers’ orders or signage.

“Safety is everyone’s responsibility, because safety involves everyone,” Riggs added.