SAN PATRICIO COUNTY, Texas — Since the Nueces River Bridge Construction Project began on Interstate 37 and U.S. Highway 77, multiple crashes have occurred in this area.
According to TxDOT spokesperson Rickey Dailey, in the state of Texas last year, 77 percent of the deaths in work zones were either motorist or passengers. He added that he has seen a three percent increase in traffic crashes in work zones.
"It's a known fact that every week we have a crash out here on Interstate 37, 77 exchange," San Patricio County Sheriff Oscar Rivera said.
The most recent crashes happened within 24 hours of each other.
"Well last night we had a two-car accident where one car rolled over, sent five people to the hospital, one being a child," Rivera said. "This morning, we had another one in the same location, same area."
Dailey urges drivers to obey the law which will decrease the number of crashes in these areas.
"Is to slow down, drive to conditions and don't drive distracted," Dailey said. "The third thing is to wear your seatbelt."
He said since this work zone will continue for a while, he urges drivers to be aware of traffic.
"You have the single-lane traffic so allow extra time," Dailey said. "Also, if you can, take an alternate route."
Both Dailey and Rivera advise drivers to be aware of traffic changes in this area.
"We want everyone to get home safe," Dailey said. "We want our TxDOT crews, our contractors but most of all and just as importantly we want the public to get home safely."