HOT Lanes Work Zone a Hot Spot for Accidents

Since the work on the high occupancy toll (HOT) lanes on the Virginia side of the capital beltway started in July 2008, crashes in this area increased about 20% in 2009 and 30% in 2010. Some of the crashes are attributed to texting and cell phone use. In 2009, the project contractor and the Virginia Department of Transportation launched the “Orange Cones, No Phones” campaign to remind drivers to stay alert when passing through the HOT lanes work zone. Since the project will last till December 2012, drivers will continue to experience shifts and twists in this work zone.