ALT-1 Driving Safety Tips for Construction Zones
Driving through construction zones can be dangerous. There are a lot more hazards than usual, but your outing does not have to end in disaster. Here are some tips that will help keep you safe when you encounter road work.
Drive slowly- Slow down as much as possible. If you are on a highway going very slow may sometimes not be wise, but you should try to drive as slow as you safely can. Sometimes slower speeds are posted. This is because it is not safe to drive the normal speed limit. If you don’t follow the speed limit in a construction zone it is not only dangerous, but you may pay double the fine.
Be alert- When driving through a construction zone. Pay very close attention to the road. You might have to stop suddenly. Don’t talk on your cell phone and if you have to you can even turn the radio down. Keeping the distractions to a minimum will assure that you will be able to react quickly if a situation arises.
Keep both hands on the wheel- You may encounter gravel on the road or other conditions that could make your vehicle harder to control. Using both hands will help you keep the car steady.
Read and follow all signs- There are usually signs that will give you instructions when you are driving through an area where they are working on the road. You should always pay attention to these signs because if you don’t follow them you could end up getting a ticket or even in a wreck. Also if there is a detour and you aren’t too familiar with the area, the signs will direct you to a safe alternative route.
Never pass though any barriers- You may see other drivers going through barricades in construction zones. You should never try to follow them even if you think you can avoid being stuck in traffic. These warnings are put up because it is unsafe to drive in these areas. Doing so may cause damage to your car, harm to workers, or even injury to yourself and your passengers.
Roll up your windows- Unless someone comes up to your car to give you instruction, you should keep your windows up. Construction zones can kick up a lot of dirt and other debris which may fly into your car. This is especially true if you have asthma because excess amounts of dust aren’t good for your lungs.
Construction zones may have many hazards, but you can get through them safely. Following these simple tips can help.
