Preventing Work Zone Accidents

 Posted on December 00,0000 in Car Accidents

Even the safest drivers can fall victim to serious work zone related car accidents. Disorientation due to changing road conditions cause a myriad of potential hazards, particularly rear-end collisions. In fact, rear-end accidents are one of the leading causes of work-zone-related crashes. Everyone can do their part to prevent accidents in construction zones, but collision avoidance requires special attention to our surroundings and an enhanced level of roadway alertness.

Here are five work zone driving habits that are guaranteed to help prevent auto accident and injury:

Maintaining Safe Distances

Keeping a safe distance between you, other vehicles, and the construction workers and their equipment is one of the most effective ways to prevent an accident and even has the power to save a life. Do not crowd surrounding vehicles by tailgating. Be patient, give everyone space, and resist the urge to speed through flagger work zones.

Cooperating with Road Crew Flaggers

Did you know that disobeying a road crew flagger can result in a citation? According to the law, construction crew flaggers hold the same level of authority as regulatory roadway signage. Flaggers are trained to direct traffic and they know what is best for the vehicles passing through their work zones.

Pay Attention to Work Zone Signs

Speaking of work zone signage, it is crucial to pay attention to - and obey- whatever signs surround the construction area. These work-zone specific signs are there for a reason. They exist to advise you on the safest way to navigate through the area. Do not deviate from their instructions, even when you are in a rush to get to your destination.

Plan Ahead 

The Illinois Department of Transportation suggests planning ahead before you hit the road to prepare for any work zone encounters. You can do this by checking with the National Work Zone Safety Information Clearinghouse and tuning into various local TV and radio stations for the most up-to-date traffic information.

Reduce Your Speed 

Watching your speed is always a surefire way to prevent highway collision, but it is especially helpful when trying to avoid an auto accident and injury in highway work zones. Speeding is a major cause of work zone car crashes, and is often the reason behind rear-end collisions in these areas. Special posted speed limits are not merely a suggestion - they are the law and you are required to obey them.

Should you have the unfortunate experience of being involved in a work zone related car crash, it is important you speak with a skilled Lake County car accident attorney in order to protect your rights. The moment you are in a collision, call Salvi & Maher, LLP at 847-662-3303 for a personal consultation.

Sources:

http://www.idot.illinois.gov/travel-information/roadway-information/Work-Zones/index

http://www.idot.illinois.gov/Assets/uploads/files/Travel-Information/Fact-Sheets/Safety%20Tips%20for%20Workzones.pdf

http://www.idot.illinois.gov/Assets/uploads/files/Travel-Information/Pamphlets-&-Brochures/Work%20Zone%20National%20Fact%20Sheet.pdf