How often do you encounter work zone signs in Vermont? If you’re like most drivers, this situation happens almost daily. What do you do when you see these signs? Do you heed their warnings? Do you adjust your driving habits to accommodate the work zone conditions?
Too often, people don’t take the necessary precautions to avoid damage and injury in work zones. To keep safety paramount for yourself and others, use the following safety tips:
- Warning signs: Those orange and black signs are there for a reason—they can save lives. Read and respond appropriately to all work zone signs in Vermont. Follow flagger directions, proceed with caution and keep the work zones safe.
- Tailgaters: Some drivers follow too closely in work zones. Alert tailgaters by turning your headlights on and off several times, or you can tap your brakes to flash your brake lights. If possible, simply pull over and let them pass.
- Shoulders: It may be tempting, but do not pass on the shoulder. Similarly, don’t drive across the median. Follow work zone signs in Vermont to drive through the work zone appropriately. Shoulder and median driving create dangerous situations for everyone, and they also result in hefty fines for the driver.
- Stops: If you have to stop in traffic in a work zone, don’t get too close to the vehicle in front of you. Always leave a little room as an “out.” Keep the bottom of the tires of the vehicle in front of you visible at all times.
- Speed: Slow down! The people who put up work zone signs in Vermont aren’t trying to make you late for your appointment. They are trying to keep everyone safe. Obey posted speed limits. Drive carefully, and at slower speeds, through these areas. If you get in an accident, you’ll definitely be late.
- Delays: With modern technology, drivers can stay informed about potential delays due to work zones. Leave early if you know you’ll encounter construction. Consider an alternate route. If you can learn to expect these delays and make adjustments for them, your driving experiences will be smoother and less frustrating.
- Space: Don’t forget to leave plenty of room for stopping between your vehicle and the one in front of you. Remember the three-second rule—the car in front of you should pass a stationary object at least three seconds before you do. Additionally, maintain a safe distance between your vehicle and all construction equipment and traffic barriers.
- Distractions: Drivers should always remain alert, but you should take extra care to remove distractions when you see work zone signs in Vermont. Consider turning off music or other listening devices. If you’re on a hands-free call, resume it after you pass the zone. Don’t get too focused on mapping directions or finding alternate routes on your device. Keep your eyes on the road and your hands on the wheel.
Would you like to find out more about work zone safety and work zone signs in Vermont? At Worksafe Traffic Control Industries, we are experts in road safety. We can help you maintain the conditions your work zone needs to keep workers, drivers, and pedestrians safe. Contact our team today to discover the resources for your next work zone.