Jay, VT (July 17, 2026) – A road construction flagger suffered serious but non-life-threatening injuries after being struck by a pickup truck on Wednesday afternoon, July 15, on Route 105 near Leavitt Circle in Jay.
According to Vermont State Police, the crash occurred shortly before 4 p.m. while the 49-year-old woman was directing traffic for a road maintenance project. Authorities said an 88-year-old man driving a GMC Canyon struck the flagger.
The injured worker was treated at the scene by Newport Ambulance before being transported to North Country Hospital with suspected serious but non-life-threatening injuries. The pickup driver was not injured, and the vehicle sustained minor damage to its front passenger side.
Following their investigation, the state police cited the driver on a charge of negligent operation. The crash remains under investigation.
We hope the injured road worker makes a swift and full recovery.
What Makes Flagging Duties Dangerous Near Travel Lanes?
Road construction flaggers work close to moving vehicles while directing traffic through changing roadway conditions. Even with warning signs, cones, and reduced speed zones, they remain exposed to vehicles passing only a short distance away.
Construction zones usually require drivers to react to temporary lane shifts, stopped traffic, and workers positioned near travel lanes. Staying alert and following posted instructions helps reduce the risk of collisions in these work areas.
Investigators reviewing work-zone crashes may examine traffic-control devices, driver actions, roadway conditions, visibility, and witness statements. These findings help officials understand how the incident occurred and whether established work-zone safety procedures were followed.
