If you are from Wisconsin, you have said it before … we have two seasons, winter and construction! The snow has melted, and those orange cones are being lined up across many highways and roads throughout the state. Anyone out on the road is bound to come across construction and work zones, so it’s important to emphasize safety now more than ever.
An average of nearly 2,000 work zone crashes annually in the state. Navigate through those zones safely by keeping these safety tips in mind.
- Pay attention. Workers and heavy equipment may only be a few feet from passing vehicles. Pay attention to all warning signs. They were put there for a reason. Observe the posted signs until you see the one that lets you know you have left the work zone.
- Expect the unexpected. Often in work zones, traffic patterns and lanes may be changed. People may be working on or near the road and normal speed limits are reduced.
- Put down distractions. Dedicate your full attention to the roadway and avoid doing things such as using your cellphone or playing with the radio.
- Slow down and obey posted work zone speed limits. Speeding is one of the major causes of work zone crashes. Do not forget that traffic fines double in work zones.
- Plan ahead and expect delays. When traveling through a work zone, leave a few minutes early to make sure you arrive on time. Check websites and radio stations for traffic.
- Stay calm and be patient. The workers are trying hard to improve the road and make your future drives better. We know it can be very frustrating, but it only takes a few extra minutes to slow down for a work zone.
- Do not tailgate. Always keep a safe distance between you and the car ahead of you. The rear-end collision is the most common crash in a highway work zone.
- Keep up with the flow of traffic. By merging as soon as possible, motorists can help maintain traffic flow. Never drive all the way up to where the lane closure begins and try to squeeze in.
At Hupy and Abraham, we are committed to reducing preventable accidents. Unfortunately, no matter how safe you try to be, accidents do happen. If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident caused by a negligent or distracted driver, the car accident attorneys at Hupy and Abraham are here to help.
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