Construction zones are dangerous by nature. There might be large trucks coming in and out of the area, heavy machinery working on the roads or workers trying to control traffic while standing on the roadway. It can be dangerous to enter a work zone because you have to pay attention to avoid hazards caused by repairs to the road or blockades set up for the safety of workers.
On top of that, drivers aren’t always as cautious as they should be. Other drivers might try to cut into your lane at the last minute to avoid getting stuck behind slower drivers. Others might speed above the restricted speed limit because they want to get where they’re going faster despite signage telling them to slow down. All of these negative behaviors have the potential to lead to car crashes.
What can you do to minimize the risk of a crash?
As a driver who wanted to be safer, one of the best things you can do is hold your ground and slow down. Even if other vehicles are speeding past you, if you slow down to the speed limit set for the construction zone, you’ll be making the roads safer for yourself and others around you.
As you approach workers or equipment, maintain a speed that allows you to control and maneuver your vehicle easily. Watch out for cones, barrels and barriers that may be hit and roll into the roadway.
If traffic is slowing down ahead of you, start slowing down yourself. Put plenty of space between yourself and any slowed or stopped traffic. That way, if you’re hit from behind, there will be a lower risk of colliding with the vehicles in front of you. Additionally, you’ll have time to stop if the slower traffic ahead suddenly comes to a halt.
Driving through construction is frustrating, but you can do so safely. Keep watch for construction workers, flaggers and equipment. If you’re concerned about the safety of a local construction zone, consider reaching out to the state for help. Until then, see if there is another route you can take or maintain safe driving techniques as you pass through the area.