Summer is almost here and with it comes new construction zones on the roadways. As frustrating as it can be to sit in traffic and move slowly through the orange barrels, it can also be dangerous if you are not paying attention.
Georgia’s Department of Transportation (GDOT) reported that in 2021 there were 12,300 crashes in construction zones. This resulted in 4,027 injuries and 63 fatalities. The majority of these accidents were caused by drivers who were either distracted, speeding, or impaired by drugs or alcohol.
Staying safe in construction zones
Staying safe when driving through a construction zone is made easier by paying close attention to the traffic pattern and speed limit. This is not the time to be drinking coffee, texting, or talking on the phone. These tips can help keep you safe:
- Don’t tailgate the car in front of you. There’s a lot of sudden stopping in construction zones. It’s important to stay alert and try to maintain enough room between you and the car in front of you so that you are able to stop if necessary.
- Pay attention to signs and construction crew flaggers. They are there to safely guide you through the construction zone. Ignoring them could lead to you being ticketed by the police. Patiently follow the signs put out by the construction crew. Drive the speed limit that is posted and be courteous to other drivers around you.
- Wear your seatbelt and make sure your passengers are also wearing theirs. In a crash, this is your first source of protection.
- Do not speed or drive around traffic on the shoulder. That could put you and the construction workers in danger.
Following these suggestions will help to keep you safe this summer. However, if you are injured in a construction zone accident, contact an experienced legal guide as soon as possible.