National Work Zone Awareness Week (April 21-25) aims to remind motorists to be careful around those whose jobs put them along the roadways. Work zones also include utility crews who work along the roadsides to build, repair, and maintain the network of electric power lines. Sometimes, crews can be around the next corner or just over the hill — day or night.
“All motorists need to keep in mind that our crews can be working at any hour, so they need to be careful when they see signs and flaggers,” said Jon Elkins, vice president for safety, training, and compliance for Indiana Electric Cooperatives.
When motorists see the orange diamond-shaped work zone warning signs and vehicles with flashing lights, they should slow down and prepare for the zone ahead.
Follow these tips for driving through work zones to keep lineworkers and yourself safe.
- Research your route. Before setting out on the road, research your route. When possible, avoid work zones and use any available detours.
- Pay attention. Be aware of all signage throughout work zones that can indicate reduced speeds, lane changes, and other important information.
- Stay off your phone. Don’t talk on the phone or text while driving near or through a work zone.
- Slow down. Lane closures, traffic pattern shifts, and reduced speeds are common in work zones. Make sure to slow down when entering a work zone and keep an eye out for workers.
- Move into the open lane. Pay close attention to vehicles around you that could be in your blind spot.
- Keep your distance. Rear-end crashes are common in work zones. Always maintain extra space between your vehicle and the one in front of you.
