Now that summer is just around the corner in Minnesota, another annual season has dawned in the North Star State: road construction season. Drivers are much more likely to encounter road crews working on highway and freeway improvements, and they need to be aware of lane changes and more.
You might not think too much about the dangers road constructions workers face on the job, but unfortunately being hit by a passing car is one of them. Also, rear-end accidents are very common in road construction zones. Unfortunately, more than 700 fatalities occur in road construction zones each year in the United States.
Here are five safety tips drivers need to keep in mind when traveling through construction zones:
- Watch for signs of work zones beginning, lane changes in a work zone, a construction flagger up ahead, or for detours.
- Merge into the proper lane to accommodate an upcoming road closure as soon as you can.
- Slow down. Obey the posted speed limit in work zones and slow down even more as you approach road crew workers. If you can, move to allow workers more room as you pass them.
- Be patient when you encounter large trucks, especially those carrying heavy loads. These large trucks have less maneuverability and large blind spots, so they’re likely to travel slower through work zones.
- Give the vehicle in front of you adequate space when you’re driving through a construction zone. Traffic can slow or stop suddenly in work zones, causing rear-end crashes. Keeping your distance can ensure you have enough time to stop and keep everyone on the road safe.
No one wants to be involved in an accident, especially if you are on your way to the lake for the weekend. The fallout from an accident can have severe consequences. Not only can other drivers be injured, accidents can also involve construction workers. At-fault drivers could potentially face a lawsuit from an injured worker. Taking precautions when driving through construction zones can keep all drivers and workers safe. If you are injured in a car accident, you may benefit from reaching out to a successful personal injury attorney to hold the negligent driver accountable.
We’re thrilled to serve clients in Rochester, Austin, Owatonna, and Winona.