Driving in Work Zones
BINGHAMTON, NY - Warmer weather marks the beginning of road construction season and that means unexpected delays and detours. This usually results in slower traffic, late destinations and aggravated drivers. It is estimated that more than 20 percent of the National Highway System is under construction during peak construction season. An estimated 12 billion vehicle miles of travel a year are through these active work zones. Unfortunately this is a deadly combination. According to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), the annual number of persons killed in motor vehicle crashes in work zones has increased 45 percent over the last 10 years. The majority of these fatalities are drivers or occupants; however, 15 percent are non-motorists – including pedestrians, bikers and construction workers.
In order to reduce the number of injuries and deaths that occur in these areas, we all need to take responsibility when traveling through work zones. The FHWA offers these 10 key driving tips to keep us all safe in work zones:
1. Expect the Unexpected. Normal speed limits may be reduced, traffic lanes may be changed and people may be working on or near the road.
2. Slow Down! Speeding is one of the major causes of work zone crashes so be sure to obey the posted limits.
3. Don't Tailgate! Keep a safe distance between you and the car ahead of you. The most common crash in a highway work zone is a rear end collision.
4. Keep a Safe Distance Between Your Vehicle and the Construction Workers and Their Equipment.
5. Pay Attention to the Signs! The warning signs are there to help you and other drivers move safely though the work zone. Observe the posted signs until you see the one that says you've left the work zone.
6. Obey Road Crew Flaggers! The flagger knows what is best for moving traffic safely in the work zone. A flagger has the same authority as a regulatory sign, so you can be cited for disobeying his or her direction.
7. Stay Alert and Minimize Distractions! Dedicate your full attention to the roadway and avoid changing radio stations or using cell phones while driving in a work zone.
8. Keep Up with the Traffic Flow. Motorists can help maintain traffic flow and posted speeds by merging smoothly and not slowing to “gawk” at road work and equipment and crews.
9. Schedule Enough Time to Drive Safely and Check Radio, TV and Websites for Traffic Information. Expect delays and leave early so you can reach your destination on time. Check the National Work Zone Safety Information Clearinghouse at www.workzonesafety.org for information on work zone delays throughout the country.
10. Be Patient and Stay Calm. Work zones aren't there to personally inconvenience you. Remember, the work zone crew members are working to improve the road and make your future drive better.
For more information about New York State (NYS) construction areas please visit The New York State Thruway website at http://www.nysthruway.gov/maps/index.htmlhttp://www.nysthruway.gov/maps/index.html or New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) website at https://www.nysdot.gov/portal/page/portal/regional-offices.
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Published Date: 06-12-2008
