When entering a construction zone, you likely have seen the signs to slow down or the orange diamond-shaped signs informing you that a construction zone is approaching. You, as a driver, have a responsibility to take necessary steps to keep construction workers safe. But, did you know that the workers and their companies have very strict guidelines they must follow to avoid construction zone accidents from occurring? The following are elements of a construction zone that fall within the DOT and construction companies’ responsibility:
Uneven Pavement – When new roads are being paved, it’s likely that uneven pavement exists. The uneven pavement could pop a tire or cause you to overcorrect or not steer properly. The DOT and construction company are responsible to keep pavement smooth and drivable.
Drop Offs – In an ideal world, the sides of every road would be completely level with the surface that is next to it. However, drop offs in pavement exist. If the drop off is too large, over two inches, accidents are more likely to happen. It is unsafe to have a drop-in pavement or change in pavement height greater that two inches in the travel lane, between travel lanes, or between the travel lane and the shoulder.
Unclear Traffic Patterns – When the DOT and construction companies are reworking a road, they often put temporary lines on the road to guide the drivers. If these lines are not clearly marked and old lines are removed, it is easy for drivers to accidentally merge into the wrong lane and cause an accident.
Unclear or Unsafe Traffic Control Instructions – When traffic needs to be rerouted in a construction zone area, you will likely see traffic control signs, barrels, or workers directing vehicles. If the traffic control signs, messages, barrels, or other traffic control devices are not properly or safely positioned, you may be the victim of a car accident that was not your fault.