Vancouver Police are partnering with WorkSafeBC to protect traffic controllers working on Vancouver streets.

Road construction is a reality in the city as engineers work to improve traffic flow and infrastructure. With that construction comes an increased likelihood that drivers will experience traffic disruption and delays.

Traffic controllers are extremely vulnerable and put themselves in harm’s way on a daily basis, protected by nothing more than reflective clothing and a traffic control sign.

“These workers are responsible for keeping traffic moving smoothly through construction zones to ensure the safety of on-site workers and the commuting public,” Says Al Johnson, WorkSafeBC Vice-President, Prevention Services. “They deserve the respect and attention of drivers.”

Unfortunately, every year we see traffic controllers hit by vehicles that are operated by inattentive, aggressive and distracted drivers. Between 2008 and 2012, 51 flaggers have been hit and injured by motor vehicles while on the job and nearly sixty percent of those collisions resulted in serious injuries. In that same time period, three traffic controllers were killed. Unfortunately, in November of this year, we saw another life needlessly lost as a result of an on-the-job traffic fatality.

“On a daily basis, mothers, fathers, sons and daughters risk their own safety to get you to your destination, as safely and efficiently as possible,” says VPD Inspector Les Yeo.

“Slow down in construction zones, stay off your phone and pay attention to traffic controllers.”

Starting today, Vancouver Police Officers will be stepping up enforcement around construction zones and handing out tickets for speeding, distracted and aggressive driving.

Did You Know

If a flagger or traffic control person is controlling the movements of traffic around a section of highway, a person must obey the directions of the flagger or traffic control person and must not drive or operate a vehicle other than as directed by the controller.

Construction speed zones require the approval of the District Highways Manager, are typically used for projects of long duration, and may be left in place 24 hours a day.

Temporary speed zones are typically used for short duration work or areas and come in increments of 30, 40, 50 and 70 km/h. These speed zones are removed when the work area is inactive.

  • A ticket for disobeying a construction speed sign could cost you $138.00
  • Using an electronic device while driving, $167.00
  • Texting or emailing while driving, $167.00
  • Disobey a driver’s license restriction / using an electronic device while driving, $167.00 (Novice and Learner drivers)
  • And driving without due care and attention, $368.00