Construction site crash a stark reminder of roadside-worker dangers

By Heather VanDyke

The Yale Expositor

CHINA TWP .— A 33-year-old construction worker was hospitalized Tuesday, June 2, after being struck by a passenger vehicle driven by a teenager within a designated work zone, according to the St. Clair County Sheriff’s Office.

The crash occurred at 12:06 p.m. on King Road, just north of Meisner Road.

Authorities said the worker, a private contractor whose identity has not been released, was performing tasks inside the protective line of traffic cones when a passenger vehicle entered the construction zone and struck him.

It’s just another example of how dangerous it is for roadside workers and why motorists need to heed caution. 

The worker was transported to McLaren Macomb hospital with injuries that officials described as non-life-threatening. His current medical status and whether he remains hospitalized could not be confirmed as of Friday, June 5.

The driver of the vehicle, identified as a 16-year-old girl from China Township, remained at the scene following the collision and is cooperating with authorities.

The St. Clair County Sheriff’s Office Accident Investigations team is handling the ongoing probe into the incident. Investigators stated that drugs and alcohol are not believed to be factors in the crash. 

Potential charges or traffic citations — including whether speeding, reckless driving, or distracted driving played a role — have not yet been determined.

The incident underscores growing regional concerns regarding the safety of road crews during the peak summer infrastructure season.

“It is the season of road repairs and construction in Michigan,” Sheriff Mat King said in a statement. “Drivers, please take steps to avoid distractions while behind the wheel.”