Civil engineering student targets speeding in Oklahoma work zones

Civil engineering student targets speeding in Oklahoma work zones

Friday, October 10, 2025

Media Contact: Desa James | Communications Coordinator | 405-744-2669 | [email protected]

Speeding in Oklahoma work zones has become a critical safety issue, contributing to a rising number of crashes, injuries and fatalities. Between 2017 and 2022, more than 7,100 collisions occurred in work zones across the state, resulting in 91 deaths, including an Oklahoma Department of Transportation worker, and more than 1,200 injuries.

Work zones pose unique hazards due to narrowed lanes, lane shifts and the presence of heavy equipment. These conditions leave little margin for error, making speed compliance essential for protecting both drivers and construction crews.

To address this challenge, a master's student from the College of Engineering, Architecture and Technology's School of Civil and Environmental Engineering is investigating why drivers speed in work zones and how to improve compliance with speed limits. The study, led by graduate research assistant Ronit Kayastha under the supervision of Dr. Yongwei Shan and in collaboration with ODOT, uses driver surveys and statistical analysis to identify the factors that influence driver behavior.

"Previous research on work zone safety often focused on what drivers did, but not why they did it," Kayastha said. "Our study will help to fill this gap by surveying a diverse group of people. We'll ask them about their opinions on speed enforcement, work zone design and other factors that influence their actions."

The team designed an online survey that asked licensed drivers about their opinions on traffic signs, enforcement strategies, rumble strips and their feelings in different work zone scenarios. By analyzing responses, the researchers hope to uncover the psychological and motivational reasons behind noncompliance.

The project also evaluates ODOT's ongoing safety initiatives, including variable speed limits, Smart Work Zones and the "Operation Hard Hat" program, which places troopers in construction zones to monitor speeding and distracted driving. Findings will help ODOT and policymakers determine which measures are most effective and where consistency in speed limits and signage could reduce risk.

"Based on the survey results that we have now, the most promising strategy for encouraging work zone speed compliance appears to use of various enforcement techniques," Kayastha said. "This includes measures like increased fines, visible police presence, and automatic speed photo enforcement."

The research team is examining multiple factors at once including driver demographics, the role of distractions, the effectiveness of traffic control devices and the impact of weather or road conditions. By combining this data with insights from ODOT programs, the project aims to provide a comprehensive picture of how to improve safety.

The study's long-term goal is to reduce crashes and impediments to traffic.

"These accidents cause catastrophic injuries and impose significant financial burdens from medical bills and legal fees," Kayastha said. "Beyond the immediate human cost, they also create widespread problems on the road causing significant traffic congestion and delays leading to increasing drivers' travel time and fuel consumption."

For Kayastha, the project has also been a pivotal experience as a researcher.

"Leading this research has been a defining part of my graduate experience," Kayastha said. "It has challenged me to think independently, from designing the survey to planning the analysis of behavioral data using advanced statistical models."

Findings from the study will be shared with ODOT and state leaders to guide traffic management decisions and shape policies that can save lives on Oklahoma's roads.