According to the Colorado Department of Transportation, work zone accidents cause about 600 deaths and injure more than 37,000 people nationwide. Of the people killed, 85% of them are drivers and passengers.
Safe-Driving Tips
It’s no wonder then that most infractions in Colorado cone zones attract double fines. The following six tips can help you safely drive through work zones:
1. Don’t Drive Too Closely
Across the country, a rear-end crash happens once every eight seconds. These type of collisions are consequently the most common type of accidents on the road. Even when these accidents happen at low speed, they often lead to whiplash injuries, spinal injuries, and facial injuries.
Luckily, you can easily reduce the chance of causing a rear-end crash if you don’t tailgate. Maintain a safe distance, two car lengths, between your vehicle the one ahead of you. The length will allow adequate time and distance to stop safely if the car in front makes an unexpected stop.
2. Anticipate the Unexpected
Work zones are dynamic. Be ready for changes in traffic lanes, an unanticipated reduction of speed limits and workers on the road. Plan for such unexpected changes on or near the road.
3. Stay Alert and Reduce Distractions
You’re going to be distracted if you want to use your phone while driving. Pre-occupation with your GPS or car radio may also lower your concentration. Such distractions can lead to costly mistakes on the road.
And if another driver hits you from behind when you’re distracted, you may be held partially responsible for the crash.
For although Colorado law considers the following driver to be at-fault almost always, a Denver truck accident lawyer or attorney can have your compensation reduced if you were distracted when the accident happened.
4. Obey the Flaggers
Flaggers are a crucial part of a road construction project. They go through extensive training programs so they can safely move pedestrians and motorists thorough or around cone zones while protecting workers and equipment.
They understand what is best for moving traffic in the zone and endeavor to provide maximum safety. Remember flaggers enjoy the same authority as regulatory signs. Drivers are therefore obligated to obey this crucial crew and can be cited for disobeying their directions.
5. Plan the Drive
Usually, highway agencies will inform road users about the location and duration of construction projects. Check websites, television, and radio for relevant traffic information. Expect delays on the road, plan for them, and leave early so you may have enough time to drive within speed limits.
Consider taking detours to avoid work zones whenever possible or convenient.
6. Obey Warning Signs
Once you see a warning sign that says you’ve entered a work zone, heed the sign even if you haven’t seen the workers yet. The posted signs are designed to help you and other road users move safely through the cone zone.
With every cone zone comes construction workers, equipment and numerous changes in both the road and alignment of travel. Therefore, you must play your part to keep the construction zones safe. Drive responsibly, observe speed limits and obey flaggers and law enforcers to keep yourself and construction workers safe.
