Scary footage of a near-accident in a work zone in upstate New York

Late last week, the New York Department of Transportation (DOT) released frightening footage of a near-miss that occurred at a construction site in Otsego, New York.

Summer is a popular time of year for road work in New York State, and many major roads in the Hudson Valley are currently under construction or maintenance, resulting in construction sites.

Accidents in work zones in New York State

In 2023, the New York Department of Transportation reported 413 “work zone incursions” on New York State roadways. A “work zone incursion” is defined as “a motor vehicle entering a portion of the roadway that is closed for construction or maintenance.”

In the 413 burglaries, 144 people were injured and 3 people were killed.

Intrusion into work zones in northern New York State

The New York Department of Transportation is using this recent near-miss as a warning to all drivers to be extra cautious when driving through construction zones.

In the video released by the New York City Department of Transportation, a truck pulling an oversized load can be seen striking one of the traffic cones at the edge of the work zone, causing the cone to fly close to the workers at work.

Fortunately, no one was injured in this latest incursion into the work zone, but emergency crews are warning drivers of the danger they pose to workers who are just trying to maintain the roads.

SEE ALSO: New York to spend $63.5 million to replace Hudson Valley bridges

The New York City Department of Transportation says: “Our teams risk their lives every day to keep New York City’s streets safe for you. Their request is simple: slow down, pull over when possible, and stay alert.”

Penalties for speeding near work zones in New York

If you are caught speeding near a construction site in New York, the minimum fine for a first offense is $50.

If you are caught speeding near a construction site for the second time within an 18-month period, the fine increases to $75.

Additional charges may apply depending on previous violations, actual speed and the time between violations.