The Illinois Department of Transportation, Illinois State Police and the Illinois Tollway were joined by their industry partners to kick off National Work Zone Awareness Week and to make a request to motorists: “Don’t Be That Driver.”  To signal the start of construction season and call attention to this important issue, Governor Bruce Rauner has proclaimed April 11^th through the 15^th as “Work Zone Safety Week” in Illinois.  The theme for this year’s National Work Zone Awareness Week is “Don’t Be That Driver,” reinforcing the message that driving in and around highway construction sites requires special attention.  Lane closures, changes in traffic patterns, reductions in the speed limit and the presence of workers and equipment create an environment that demands drivers refrain from behavior that could create a distraction.  According to recent studies, drivers engaged in activities other than driving, such as eating, grooming or using a mobile device, are up to four times more likely to be involved in a crash.  This year, IDOT and the Illinois Tollway will be continuing their use of Smart Work Zones.  The system utilizes roadway sensors to relay travel times via digital message boards in advance of a work zone so motorists are aware of any backups and can seek alternate routes.  Speed indicator boards will be deployed again this year to increase awareness of work zone speed limits.  More than 4,300 motor vehicle crashes on average occur in Illinois work zones every year.  Provisional data shows that 46 people were killed in Illinois work zone crashes in 2015.  In recent years, Illinois has strengthened laws to increase safety in work zones.  Fines for speeding in work zones are $375 for first-time offenders and $1,000 for a second offense.  The penalty for hitting a worker is a fine of up to $10,000 and 14 years in prison.  The use of all hand-held electronic devices while driving at all times is prohibited.