National Work Zone Awareness week

April 23-27, 2012, is Work Zone Awareness week. To keep construction workers and motorists safe, the Minnesota Department of Transportation asks that drivers follow these tips:

 

Construction 2012

Although construction work on highways has continued during the winter because of good weather, many new construction projects have begun this spring.

• More 2012 construction details at www.mndot.gov/construction/

 

 

Recognize work zones

• You may encounter roadway work zone areas anywhere you travel.
• Work zones operate day and night.
• Work zones can be moving (snow plow or mower) or stationary (highway construction project).
• Work zones are marked with orange cones or barrels, concrete barriers, traffic control devices or moving vehicles with flashers.
• Flaggers, surveyors and workers in bright yellow-green or orange vests are road crew members.

 

Pay attention

• Stay alert, especially at night, when driving through work zones.
• Expect the unexpected.
• Obey posted speed limits in work zones. Fines may double for violations in work zones.
• Research shows the main causes of work zone crashes are excessive speed and inattention by drivers. Most injuries and deaths happen to motorists driving through work zones.
• Never enter a roadway that has been blocked with barriers or cones.
• Don’t tailgate! Keep plenty of space between you and the vehicle ahead.
• Don’t change lanes unnecessarily; anticipate lane shifts and merge when directed to do so.
• Avoid using cell phones and mobile devices while driving in work zones.
• Be patient. Expect delays, especially during peak travel times.
• Drive as if road workers’ lives depend on you – they do!