There's an old joke that goes "There are only two seasons in St Louis: Winter and Road Construction." With temps rising as we head into spring, expect to see more and more road construction zones pop up. Unfortunately, that also means we see a lot more accidents, and that problem is only getting worse. According to the National Safety Council, fatalities from accidents in work zones rose 46% over the last decade. Here are a few tips to stay safe out there in those construction zones:
- Slow down. Always drive at or below the posted speed limit in construction zones. Even if the roads appear to be clear and free of workers, it is still important to respect and adhere to the speed limit.
- Watch for signs and cones. Pay attention to all signs, cones, and barriers in the construction zone, as they are there to alert you to potential hazards and direct you around the construction.
- Be alert. Be aware of your surroundings and watch for any workers or equipment in the area. Make sure to keep your distance from other vehicles and be prepared to stop at any time.
- Obey traffic laws. Follow all traffic laws and signals in the construction zone, just as you would in any other area. Do not attempt to jump lanes or cut through the work zone.
- Use caution when passing. When passing through a construction zone, always use extreme caution. Be sure to look both ways before entering the work zone, and be aware of any workers or equipment in the area.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that you, your passengers, and the workers in the construction zone remain safe.