Avoiding accidents while driving through construction zones

As the summer comes to a close, many construction projects are ramping up to finish before the weather turns bad. Albany certainly faces this on a yearly basis due to the often-violent change of seasons. Drivers must be aware of the high volume of road construction projects as well as construction vehicles leaving a job site and entering the road.

Here are four tips that can keep drivers safe while driving through construction zones:

1. Slow down: While the reduced speeds might seem like an inconvenience, these zones are designed to ensure drivers have the time necessary to react to challenges.
2. Avoid tailgating: Similar to the above-mentioned, you might feel that the speed reduction is a hassle, but tailgating won’t get you to your destination any faster. You will likely make the driver in front of you nervous while reducing the safe stopping distance between the two cars.
3. Avoid distractions: While there are various laws regarding cell phone use, drivers must also be aware of other distractions when driving through work zones. From eating while behind the wheel to manipulating a GPS system, anything that takes a driver’s attention from the road can be dangerous.
4. Watch out for workers: It is not uncommon for roadside workers to be forced to venture close to traffic. Whether it is holding caution signs or performing a job task in a tight area, workers might have to stand mere feet away from fast-moving traffic.

While these precautions might seem like common sense, too many drivers ignore safety in favor of a shorter trip … or the chance to multi-task while behind the wheel. If you were injured in a car collision in a construction zone, do not hesitate to schedule a consultation with a skilled personal injury attorney.