Write Up:

It is a goal of MoDOT to eliminate work zone crashes. This measure focuses on reducing crashes involving protective vehicles (PV), truck mounted attenuators (TMA), or trailer mounted attenuators (TrMA).

In the third quarter of 2026, MoDOT reported 15 protective vehicle crashes in work zones. Through the third quarter, there were 34 incidents, which is consistent with the previous four year average for the same period. Overall, MoDOT saw an increase in incidents from the second to the third quarter. These crashes can range from minor—requiring little-to-no repair—to severe incidents resulting in total equipment loss or injuries. New protective units cost between $50,000 and $80,000, not including additional expenses such as staff time, vehicle damage, lost wages, or medical costs. The most significant impact, however, is the potential for life altering injuries or loss of life, which cannot be quantified.

During the third quarter, seven MoDOT employees and two known third party individuals involved in a TMA/TrMA/PV crash required medical attention. The 15 protective vehicle crashes occurred predominantly in urban areas: 11 on major routes, two on ramps, and two on minor undivided routes. All but one incident occurred during daytime operations.
These operations included:
•    5 Sweeping
•    2 Litter removal
•    1 Mowing
•    1 Pothole patching
•    1 Edge rut repair
•    4 Non moving work (barrier wall, drainage, signing)
•    1 Other – Concrete spalling

Purpose of the Measure:

MoDOT owns more than 600 truck- or trailer-mounted attenuators used to help save lives by absorbing the impact of a crash in a work zone. By measuring the number of TMA/protective vehicle hits, MoDOT can identify and share information about higher-risk activities that could result in a crash and develop strategies to eliminate work zone crashes.  

Measurement and Data Collection:

When a TMA incident occurs, a claim report is completed. The claim report and any associated police reports are reviewed by Risk Management Technicians for interpretation. A statewide work zone incident team reviews TMA incidents and seeks strategies for operations improvement to reduce or eliminate the incidents. Only incidents where the TMA was in an active work zone protecting workers are included in this data. This measure is reported based on quarters of a calendar year.