4 Safety Tips for Driving through a Construction Zone

For many American families, summer is the perfect time to travel because the kids are out of school. Unfortunately, it also happens to be the perfect time to complete road construction because the weather is more predictable than it is during the winter months.

Driving through congested construction zones is dangerous, so it is essential that you comply with all traffic markers and flaggers in order to reduce the risk of a serious collision. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, there were 669 fatalities in work zone accidents in 2014.

If you sustained debilitating injuries or lost a loved one in a construction zone crash, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. A Dallas accident attorney from the Cooper Law Firm can evaluate your case to determine if you have grounds for a personal injury claim. Call 903-297-0037 today to schedule a free initial consultation.

Read on to learn a few tips for staying safe when driving through construction zones:

1. Obey the New Posted Speed Limit

Drivers tend to speed through work zones in areas where they drive often. The Texas Department of Insurance reminds motorists to pay attention to any posted signs and to adjust their speed accordingly.

2. Remain Patient and Plan Ahead

Construction zones might seem unnecessarily congested, but the flaggers do the best they can to reduce the wait time for everyone. Try to remain patient when driving through a construction zone so you don’t feel the urge to do something reckless like speed or pass on the shoulder. If you have an important meeting or appointment coming up, check the route ahead of time so you can plan accordingly if part of it happens to be a work zone.

3. Do Not Tailgate

Rear-end collisions are incredibly common in work zones, but they are also entirely preventable. Leave plenty of space between you and the car ahead of you to reduce the risk of such a collision. You should also try to maintain a safe distance between your vehicle and any traffic barriers or equipment.

4. Minimize Distractions

Do not use your phone or input information in your navigation system when driving through a construction zone. It is essential that you remain alert at all times because there is no way to predict the flow of traffic in a congested work zone.

Sadly, you can follow all of these tips and still find yourself in a catastrophic work zone collision. If you sustained injuries in a crash that another driver caused, contact the Cooper Law Firm.

N. Eric Cooper is an experienced car accident attorney in Texas who will compassionately represent your interests during the claims process. Mr. Cooper will gather evidence, interview witnesses, and help you fight for the highest possible compensation. Call 903-297-0037 to schedule a free case evaluation.