CHARLESTON, W.Va. — West Virginia is taking a major step toward improving safety in highway work zones with the implementation of a new law allowing West Virginia Division of Highways (WVDOH) and contractor vehicles to use flashing green safety lights in active work areas.
Governor Patrick Morrisey recently signed Senate Bill 692, officially authorizing the use of the new green warning lights beginning immediately. State transportation officials say the change is designed to make roadside work crews more visible and help reduce crashes in dangerous work zones.
According to WVDOH, green was selected because it is easier for the human eye to detect and stands out against traditional amber warning lights, improving visibility and increasing sight distance — especially during poor weather conditions such as snow, rain, or fog.
State officials say the move comes as work zone safety remains a serious concern across West Virginia. In 2025, the state recorded approximately 800 work zone crashes, including five fatalities, highlighting the ongoing dangers faced by highway workers and motorists alike.
Transportation leaders say the flashing green lights are intended to draw drivers’ attention faster, encourage motorists to slow down, and help combat dangerous behaviors such as distracted driving and speeding through construction areas.
WVDOH is reminding drivers of a simple message as the new lights begin appearing across the state:
“When You See Green, Slow Down.”
Officials say the law represents another effort to protect road crews working daily in hazardous conditions and to ensure everyone makes it home safely.
