A work zone is an area of traffic where activities like highway construction, maintenance, or utility work are in process. Work zones play a crucial role in maintaining and upgrading roadways. It is essential to maintain smooth traffic through these zones; otherwise, they may result in crashes, injuries, and fatalities. The factors that aggravate these incidents in a work zone are traffic route changes like narrowing the pathway or altering traffic patterns and various other ongoing construction activities. It is crucial to mark a work zone by proper signs, channeling devices, barriers, pavement markings, and working vehicles. And also adequate training of the workers and their appropriate reflective clothing.
Common hazards of work zones
Common hazards of work that hinder the swift flow of traffic include construction vehicles, construction debris, bumpy roadways, reduced or narrowed traffic lanes, workers working close to the traffic lane, working at night without reflective gears, and the resulting traffic congestion.
Common causes of injuries and fatalities due to work zone crashes
The most common type of work zone crash is rear-ended crash. Most fatal ones occurred on roads with a speed limit greater than 50mph. It is difficult for a vehicle to move with this speed to control most of the time, resulting in hitting the rear end of a slowing or stopping the vehicle.
Five tips for safe driving in a work zone:
1) Stay attentive:
Always stay attentive, turn off your calls and radio, take your time, especially when visibility is not clear, congestion, or the weather is unfavorable. As the work goes on, road equipment and workers may be only feet away from your vehicle. A little carelessness can lead to a crash and also double traffic fines.
2) Slow down your speed:
While driving through a work zone, pay close attention to the vehicle and road ahead. Workers and vehicles from the work zone can enter your lane without warning. Keep the speed slow and maintain distance with the vehicle ahead can prevent crashes. Do not tailgate and leave a two-car length between you and the car in front of you. Follow the traffic plan. Merge into the proper lane well before reaching a lane closure.
3) Pay attention to signs and warnings:
Obey all orange and black signs that give you warnings and information to drive safely. Also, follow road crew flaggers, as they know best for moving traffic through the work zone.
4) Use your car signals:
Use turn signals and emergency flashers if you come to a complete stop. Also, pay attention to the signals of the vehicle ahead. Turn the headlights on to clear your vision and make your vehicle more visible.
5) Beware of uneven surfaces:
Be careful near height changes in lanes, worn roadway surfaces, and uneven pavement. Be careful to avoid traffic barricades and drums that may control traffic near the work zone.
“Traffic police often impose stricter rules in work zones, and traffic fines are doubled. If you are injured due to another negligent driver in a work zone, you can claim compensation,” states personal injury lawyer Felix Gonzalez.
A good lawyer will guide you on the best way to claim personal injury compensations.
