SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Steve Stadelman has introduced legislation to require driver’s education courses to include instruction on worker safety in highway construction zones.

“Ensuring the safety of both drivers and construction workers on our roadways is a shared responsibility,” said Stadelman (D-Rockford). “By equipping our future drivers with the knowledge and understanding necessary to navigate construction zones with caution and respect, we can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and tragedies.”

Senate Bill 3151 would require public school district driver education courses to include an instruction on worker safety in highway construction and maintenance zones.

The number of people who died in work zone crashes increased from 586 people in 2010 to 954 people in 2021, according to National Safety Council Injury Facts.

“By integrating this vital component into our educational curriculum, we can instill in our young drivers a heightened awareness of the potential hazards, and empower them to make safer decisions behind the wheel,” said Stadelman.

Senate Bill 3151 passed the Senate Education Committee on Tuesday and heads to the full Senate for further consideration.