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AAA Reminds Motorists to Drive Cautiously Near Work Zones
 CHARLOTTE, N.C. (April 9, 2018) – National Work Zone Awareness Week is this week, April 9-13. AAA Carolinas supports this nationwide initiative that aims to remind motorists the importance of being extra vigilant in work zones. Spring brings the start of road construction season which means drivers will run into more blocked off lanes and work zones on major roads.
“It is so important that motorists take work zones seriously and drive cautiously through them, said AAA Carolinas Foundation for Traffic Safety President Tiffany Wright. “Road safety crews and construction workers risk their lives on busy roadways to improve our driving conditions and transportation needs in our state and we must do our part as motorists to help keep them safe.” In 2016, there were 765 fatalities nationwide that occurred in work zones, according to the National Work Zone Safety Information Clearinghouse. 143 of those were the workers themselves. As motorists approach a marked work zone, they should expect a reduced speed limit and lane closures. This may make the existing lanes narrow and traffic will have to shift to adjust. “We urge motorists to prepare for sudden changes in driving conditions when approaching work zone areas,” added Wright. “By simply staying alert and slowing down, motorists can help prevent work zone crashes and keep themselves, their passengers, and roadway construction workers safe.” AAA Carolinas advises motorists to adhere to the following tips when driving in a work zone:
Some work zones are mobile and moving, such as when line painting, road patching or mowing are occurring. Just because you do not see the workers immediately after you see the warning sign does not mean they are not there. Observe the posted signs until you see the one that says “End Road Work.” |
