6 Tips for Safe Driving in Construction Zones

driving through construction zoneWith 77 construction projects on the books for the City of Windsor this summer, motorists are being warned to prepare for roadwork on several roadways throughout the area that will cause congestion and potential hazards.

Although there are a variety of smaller projects occurring throughout the city, the two largest projects include a $5.8 million phase of the Cabana Road improvement project and a bridge rehabilitation project that will impact E.C. Row Expressway.

Road construction presents many hazards for drivers. As roads narrow and lanes decrease, traffic will slow or come to a complete stop. Traffic patterns may change and drivers will have to deal with uneven surfaces and narrowed lanes bordered by barricades and signs.

These dangerous conditions create the perfect opportunity for road construction accidents if motorists are not paying attention and following the rules of the road.

Work Zone Safety for Drivers

A survey released by the Ontario Road Builders’ Association (ORBA) last year found that many drivers reported witnessing several dangerous driving habits while in construction zones, including:

  • Speeding – 87 percent
  • Weaving – 72 percent
  • Road rage – 61 percent

These bad habits are dangerous under the best driving conditions. However, when in a construction zone, their dangerous effects are multiplied. Drivers who engage in these behaviours endanger not only their lives, but also the lives of everyone on the road, including other motorists and workers.

Windsor motorists should follow these tips for avoiding a collision in a work zone.

1. Avoid Distractions

According to ORBA’s study, one in every three drivers admits they are not always focused on the road. That is not surprising given that distracted driving is the leading cause of automobile fatalities in Ontario.

Distracted driving, such as sending a text or email, checking social media, talking on the phone, or eating while driving, are not only illegal in Ontario, but are also extremely dangerous.

Anything that diverts your attention away from the task of driving significantly increases your risk for being involved in an accident. Combine that with the increased risks of a construction zone and the chances of causing an accident are significantly increased.

To avoid distractions, drivers should:

  • Dedicate your full attention to the road
  • Put away anything that could distract you
  • Leave multi-tasking for when you are not driving
  • Limit the number of passengers in your vehicle who can pull your attention
  • Make any adjustments to your GPS, radio, seats, mirrors and AC before you get underway

2. Keep a Safe Distance Between Vehicles

Traffic will slow down as you approach and travel through a work zone. As congestion increases around you, you should make sure to keep a safe distance between your vehicle and those around you.

If the vehicle in front of you suddenly comes to a complete stop or another obstacle obscures your lane of travel, you will need time and space to stop.

Rear-end collisions are the most common type of car accident in construction zones. Although a minor fender bender may only cause limited damage to your vehicle, more serious accidents can cause severe damage and injuries, such as whiplash and broken bones.

3. Adhere to Posted Speed Limits and Other Signage

Speed limits change in construction zones for a reason. Make sure you follow the posted speed limit and obey all other posted signage in the area.

Signs will warn you of upcoming construction zones, when you should merge, if there is a new traffic pattern and if there is a flagger ahead, among many other important messages.

Always make sure you exercise caution and obey all signs and warnings.

4. Merge Responsibly

Merging in construction zones is often a serious hazard for motorists. When larger roads are reduced to one or two lanes, it can create confusion and congestion.

Minimize your risk by merging early and well ahead of where the lane ends.

5. Plan Ahead to Avoid Delays

If you know that your route includes a construction zone, plan ahead and give yourself extra time for your commute. Knowing where work zones are and checking traffic before you leave can help you avoid an unexpected delay.

When setting out for your commute, you should also expect the unexpected. Traffic patterns can change daily and workers, equipment and work vehicles may unexpectedly enter your lane without warning.

6. Remain Calm

If you find yourself stuck in construction zone track, remain calm. Becoming angry and aggressive will not help you move through the area any faster, but it could push you to engage in risky actions that put you and the others around you in danger.

Windsor Road Construction Accident Lawyers are Ready to Help

If you are injured in a collision caused by another driver while in a construction zone, do not hesitate to contact the road construction accident lawyers a Greg Monforton & Partners.

We are familiar with the many complexities that could surround your accident and have the skills and resources to investigate and build a strong case on your behalf. We are committed to helping you obtain the compensation you need to recover from an accident injury.

We offer free, no obligation consultations and will not charge any legal fees unless we recover compensation for you.

Call (866) 320-4770 now for a free consultation.