The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) is reminding drivers to exercise caution, slow down, and avoid distractions as maintenance crews continue roadside mowing into the summer months.

Beginning July 1, IDOT conducts both safety mowing, directly adjacent to the road as needed, and maintenance mowing, including areas next to culverts, ditches, traffic control devices, and other structures.

According to the most recent statistics, Illinois averages almost 6,100 crashes in work zones each year, resulting in 1,600 injuries and 28 deaths. Heavy maintenance mowing will continue until August 15.