7 Safety Tips Every Driver Should Know for a Construction Zone

Driving requires constant decision-making, especially for commercial drivers striving to meet delivery schedules. In urban settings, drivers often make between 50 to 60 decisions per mile. Construction zones further complicate this task, introducing altered traffic patterns, narrowed lanes, and other challenges that heighten the risk of accidents.

Recent data shows the dangers associated with construction zones. In 2022, there were 891 fatalities and 37,701 injuries in work zone crashes across the United States. This marks a 52% increase in work zone deaths since 2010.

Commercial vehicles are significantly involved in these incidents. In 2021, fatal work zone crashes involving commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) increased by 39%, from 210 in 2020 to 291 in 2021. This highlights the elevated risks that construction zones pose to truck drivers.

Driving through a construction zone can be stressful and demanding. However, it's important for all drivers, especially those operating commercial vehicles, to prioritize safety. By adopting effective safety measures and remaining vigilant, drivers can significantly reduce the risk of accidents in a construction zone.

Here are 7 tips from our experienced drivers to help you with such tight zones.

1. Expect the unexpected

Driving through a construction zone presents unique challenges that require more awareness and adaptability. Unexpected obstacles, sudden traffic slowdowns, and unpredictable driver behavior can all create dangerous situations. Sometimes, you may not receive advance notice about a construction zone ahead, and accidents or lane closures can lead to sudden delays.

To navigate these tight zones safely, always plan your route with extra time in mind. Factoring in potential slowdowns ensures you stay calm and focused rather than rushing to make up lost time. A patient, cautious mindset significantly reduces the risk of errors and accidents.

One of the most effective driving strategies in work zones is defensive driving. According to the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), defensive driving involves techniques that help you save time and money and, most importantly, your life. This approach requires anticipating potential hazards and maintaining a buffer that allows you to react safely.

Key defensive driving techniques include:

• Keeping a safe following distance: Tailgating is especially dangerous in work zones where sudden stops are common.

• Adjusting speed based on conditions: If roadwork, wet surfaces, or reduced visibility are present, slow down accordingly.

• Approaching bends with caution: Reduce speed before entering a curve to avoid the need for sudden braking.

• Staying alert to road signs and flaggers: Construction workers and temporary traffic signs provide crucial guidance on lane shifts and speed changes.

Training courses on defensive driving are available across the U.S. and provide truckers with valuable techniques for navigating construction zones safely.

2. Obey the speed limit

Following the posted speed limits is important for ensuring safety in construction zones. Excessive speed endangers construction workers and diminishes a driver's ability to respond promptly to unforeseen circumstances. In 2023, speeding was a factor in approximately 27.8% of fatal crashes, underscoring its significant role in traffic fatalities.

Moreover, the perceived time savings from speeding are minimal. Studies indicate that the average driver saves only about 26 seconds per day by exceeding speed limits.

The increased risk far outweighs this negligible benefit, especially when operating a fully loaded 80,000-pound tractor-trailer.

Many transportation companies have implemented measures to promote safe driving practices. For instance, some companies limit their tractors to specific speeds and monitor driving behavior in real-time. However, it remains the responsibility of commercial drivers to adjust their speed appropriately when approaching construction zones.

When navigating through these areas, drivers should:

• Stay vigilant for reduced speed limits: Construction zones often have lower speed limits to protect workers and drivers.

• Shifting lanes cautiously: Be prepared for sudden lane changes or closures.

• Maintain a safe following distance: Allow ample space between your vehicle and others to ensure sufficient reaction time.

3. Give yourself extra time

A construction zone can introduce unexpected delays, sometimes adding an extra hour or more to your travel time, particularly in busy urban centers or during peak traffic periods.

Failing to account for these potential delays can lead to missed delivery appointments or violations of Hours of Service (HOS) regulations. There's nothing more frustrating than being within sight of your exit, only to be stuck in traffic for an additional hour due to unforeseen congestion.

Accidents within a construction zone can further exacerbate delays. However, by incorporating a buffer into your schedule, you can navigate these challenges without undue stress.

To mitigate these risks:

• Plan your route in advance: Utilize GPS and traffic apps to identify potential construction zones and anticipate delays.

• Allocate extra travel time: Build a cushion into your schedule to accommodate unforeseen hold-ups.

• Stay informed: Regularly check for traffic updates and adjust your route as necessary.

4. Follow flagger directions

These traffic controllers have the same legal authority as regulatory road signs, meaning failure to comply with their instructions can result in serious consequences, including fines or citations. More importantly, ignoring their signals can put both workers and drivers at risk.

Before entering a construction zone, watch for signs indicating a flagger ahead. Once you spot them, slow down and be prepared to follow their hand signals or sign paddles. Flaggers help manage traffic flow and ensure vehicles move safely through work areas, preventing sudden stops, confusion, or accidents.

To ensure compliance and safety in a construction zone:

• Recognize flagger signals: Familiarize yourself with the standard hand signals and signs they use to direct traffic.

• Reduce speed immediately: Slow down upon noticing a flagger ahead to allow time for safe maneuvering.

• Stay alert and patient: Expect sudden stops or lane changes and be prepared to adjust accordingly.

5. Use flashers for visibility

Using your four-way flashers (hazard lights) and, if applicable, over-dimensional lights, is a great way to alert other drivers of your presence and any potential hazards ahead.

One common risk in construction zones is when smaller vehicles attempt to overtake trucks without realizing there’s a slowdown or road crew ahead. This can result in sudden braking, leading to dangerous chain-reaction accidents. Given the size and weight of a fully loaded truck, a loss of control in these situations can result in multi-lane pileups.

For better visibility:

• Activate your hazard lights early: Alert drivers behind you that traffic is slowing down.

• Maintain a steady pace: Sudden stops or erratic lane changes increase accident risks.

• Stay in your lane: Passing in construction zones is hazardous; avoid unnecessary lane changes.

6. Take ten when changing lanes in a construction zone

Merging into traffic within a construction zone requires patience and careful execution. A great method for safe lane changes is the “Take Ten” rule.

When you see a “lane closed ahead” sign or flashing arrow panels signaling a required merge, don’t wait until the last possible moment to switch lanes. Instead, follow these steps:

• Signal early: Activate your turn signal at least three seconds before moving.

• Merge gradually: Take seven seconds to smoothly transition into the next lane while continuously checking your mirrors.

• Maintain awareness: Stay alert for vehicles in your blind spots and ensure a safe following distance.

By taking at least ten seconds to complete your lane change, you create a safer driving environment for yourself and others. 

7. Stay aware of blind spots

Blind spots are a hazard in any driving situation, but they become even more critical in a construction zone. Limited space, shifting lanes, and heavy equipment make it essential for truck drivers and passenger vehicles to remain mindful of their surroundings.

For truck drivers, checking blind spots frequently is crucial. Backup alarms, mirrors, and visual aids can help enhance visibility, but drivers must remain extra vigilant. Before hitting the road, make sure:

• Backup alarms and lights are functional: Alert nearby motorists and workers to your movements.

• Mirrors and visual aids are correctly positioned: Proper placement ensures you have maximum visibility of surrounding traffic.

• Blind spots are checked frequently: Never assume a lane is clear without verifying.

Passenger vehicles should also take extra precautions and avoid lingering in a truck’s no-zone areas directly behind, beside, or too close in front of a large truck. 

Your patience can save a life

A few extra seconds of caution can mean the difference between a safe journey and a tragic accident. Slowing down, staying alert, and respecting work zone regulations aren’t just about avoiding fines, they’re about ensuring that road workers, fellow drivers, and you get home safely.

Next time you enter a work zone, remember: no deadline or destination is more important than a life. Take a deep breath, ease off the gas, and drive like someone’s life depends on it—because it does.

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