Ohio is no stranger to roadside construction. To help ensure the safety of both you and the workers at the site, here are some tips that you should follow while driving in a construction zone.
Give 100% of your attention to the roadway
Driving through a construction zone usually involves moving into another lane and driving slowly around construction vehicles and workers. Since there is more going on than just driving down a regular roadway, you should be dedicating 100% of your attention what is in front of you. Give up distractions like changing the radio station, eating or even talking on your cell phone while driving through a construction zone. The more you pay attention to the construction zone, the less likely you are to be involved in an accident that results in personal injuries.
Follow flagger instructions
When you enter a construction zone, you’ll be greeted by a flagger. This individual is there to help direct traffic and instruct you on how to proceed through the construction site safely. It’s important that you slow down and read the signs that the flagger uses to direct traffic through the work zone. You always want to proceed with caution as they may change signal signs as you approach.
Give distance between you and the vehicle you’re following
One of the biggest mistakes that drivers make when traveling through a construction zone is following too closely to the vehicle in front of them. Sudden stops are common in construction zones. You should give a safe distance between the front of your vehicle and the back of the vehicle in front of you. This will give you adequate time to respond to their brake lights and any braking that happens.
Most drivers are familiar with traveling through a construction zone. Since there are different signs and signals that a flagger uses to direct vehicles through the construction zone and because they change so often, it’s important that you take your time and follow the safety measures that we went over above. Remember that the safer you are in a construction zone, the less likely you’ll be involved in an accident.