How to Drive Safely Through Construction
Construction season is a constant in Wisconsin, requiring extra vigilance from every driver. Whether you are navigating a highway expansion or local utility work, your actions in a work zone protect both you and the crews on the road.
Navigating Construction Zones Safely
When driving in a construction zone, you should expect the unexpected. This means slowing down the moment you see orange signs or barrels. When driving in a work zone, you should stay alert for sudden lane shifts and workers close to the roadway to avoid a construction accident.
To ensure safety, you should avoid:
- Distractions: Avoid using your phone, adjusting the radio, or eating.
- Tailgating: Maintain a generous following distance; rear-end collisions are common due to sudden stops.
- Speeding: Construction driving requires strict adherence to posted limits, which are often lower than normal.
Understanding Traffic Signs and Violations
Construction traffic signs are designed to give you advanced warning of hazards. Ignoring these indicators can lead to more than just safety risks. In Wisconsin, fines for moving traffic violations in construction zones are often doubled. Law enforcement prioritizes these areas to protect workers and motorists alike.
Common Causes of Accidents
What are the common causes of accidents on construction sites and surrounding roads? Most incidents stem from:
- Speeding: High speeds reduce your reaction time when lanes narrow.
- Weather conditions: rain or fog can make construction driving especially dangerous, as pavement markings may be harder to see and stopping distances increase on uneven surfaces.
- Inattentive driving: Drivers who fail to notice merging traffic or signal changes.
Protect Your Rights
Even the most cautious drivers can be involved in an accident due to the negligence of others not practicing driving safety. If you have been injured in a work zone collision, consulting a personal injury lawyer can help you understand your options for recovery.
The team of personal injury attorneys at Herrling Clark Law Firm is dedicated to helping individuals navigate the complexities of accident claims. We provide the expert guidance needed to ensure your rights are protected after a serious incident. Contact us today to discuss your case.