Driving during roadwork can be complicated and dangerous – with over 200,000 annual injuries being related to accidents in the vicinity of roadwork or construction areas. Here’s some essential tips prepared by the driving experts at Towing Chicago on how to drive safely in roadwork areas.
Never Tailgate
Tailgating is really dangerous, with rear-end crashes being the most common kind of accidents that happen in roadwork zones. When you go into an area with roadwork, slow down and keep a safe distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you.
Don’t Get Distracted
There’s a level of chaos to roadwork zones, so when you’re driving in one stay focused on your driving. This means don’t check your phone, the radio station, eat, drink, or even engage in conversation. Instead, stay vigilantly aware of brake lights in the cars in front of you, keep both of your hands on the steering wheel, and pay 100% attention to your drive.
Follow the Speed Limit
Since roadwork areas have either rough conditions or construction workers moving through it, the only way to stay safe when driving in one is by obeying the stated speed limit. Anything higher than this is likely to not only be dangerous, but get you a traffic ticket.
Headlights
Make sure to keep your headlights on so both workers passing through and other drivers have an easier time in spotting you in your vehicle.
Switching lanes and merging
Never try to cut the lane closure barrier line at the last minute as this is an incredibly dangerous maneuver. Keep the traffic flow moving by staying abreast of any lane changes that might be happening when you see signs posted that indicate lane closures and merging. Once you’re inside a road work area, only switch lanes when the signs or pavement markings say that it’s necessary.
Stay Calm
Even if you’re in a rush, running late, missed your exit, or annoyed from being in a traffic jam, make sure to stay calm and drive with attention to detail and care – this way you can stay safe while driving and ensure that everyone around you stays safe too.