
Aside from the massive volume of traffic, the thing I
observed most were the dreaded orange barrels; you know, the ones that seem to
pop up everywhere at this time of year and basically send you the signal that –
unless you planned for them – you won’t make it to your destination on time. It’s
funny how the sight of an orange barrel on the highway can immediately conjure
up so many different emotions. Like the “Now, I’ll never make it on time” fear,
the “Do they really have to do this in the middle of the day?” anger or the “Should
have filled the tank before I left this morning” anxiety.
Here’s something else I observed – driving in a construction
zone can be hazardous for both drivers and construction workers. Lanes are narrower;
traffic patterns are different, people change lanes haphazardly and for most
slowing down just doesn’t seem to be an option. The increase of activity on the
highway can also lead to distractions. The statistics show that both injuries
from construction zone accidents and the number of fatalities continues to
increase.
Here are some important tips for increasing safety in
highway construction zones.
·
SLOW DOWN – slow down to the posted speed
limits. And then be prepared to slow down even more. According to the Federal
Highway Administration – for a motor vehicle traveling at 50 mph – the stopping
distance is 300 feet on a dry highway; 400 feet on a wet highway; and 1250 feet
on icy pavement. That brings up the next tip.
·
DON’T TAILGATE – maintain at least a four second
following distance in case of sudden stops.
·
EXPECT THE UNEXPECTED – be alert. Watch for
workers entering lanes, other motorists suddenly changing lanes or the person
in front of you suddenly hitting the brakes
.
·
ELIMINATE DISTRACTIONS – don’t fool with the
radio or your cell phone or try to grab something from the back seat. Pay
attention. Follow instructions.
·
BE PATIENT – as much of an inconvenience that
they may be, these work zones are necessary for properly maintaining our
highways and keeping them safe.
It takes only 25 seconds more to cover one mile at 45 mph
than it does at 65 mph. Slow down and be safe.
Posted by MJ Thomas
When we have to reach at the particular destination at that time drive fast. At construction you should drive slowly. Get the construction courses from Vehicle Mounted/Bucket Truck Aerial Lift Training Online to handle the large vehicles.
ReplyDeleteYou need to drive slowly while you are working at the construction site. Get the transportation of dangerous goods certificate before working at the construction industries.
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