Road construction presents many hazards for drivers. As roads narrow and lanes decrease, traffic will slow or come to a complete stop. Traffic patterns may change and drivers will have to deal with uneven surfaces and narrowed lanes bordered by barricades and signs. Drive Zimbabwe Roadside Assistance warned motorists to prepare for roadwork on several roadways throughout the area that will cause congestion and potential hazards. Improvement or maintenance works on the existing roads’ network cause a lot of disruption to traffic flows through delays and queuing. To make matters worse, the construction period of these activities is often too long and often overruns their estimated duration.
Work Zone Safety for Drivers
A survey released by Drive Zimbabwe Roadside Assistance (DZRA)found that many drivers reported witnessing several dangerous driving habits while in construction zones, including:
• Speeding – 87%
• Road rage – 61%
These bad habits are dangerous under the best driving conditions. However, when in a construction zone, their harmful effects are multiplied. Drivers who engage in these behaviours endanger not only their lives but also the lives of everyone on the road, including other motorists and workers. motorists should follow these tips for avoiding a collision in a work zone.
1. Avoid Distractions
According to a Drive Zimbabwe Roadside Assistance study, one in every three drivers admits they are not always focused on the road. That is not surprising given that distracted driving is the leading cause of vehicle fatalities. Distracted driving, such as sending a text or email, checking social media, talking on the phone, or eating while driving, is not only illegal but is also extremely dangerous. Anything that diverts your attention away from the task of driving significantly increases your risk of being involved in an accident. Combine that with the increased risks of a construction zone and the chances of causing an accident are significantly increased.
To avoid distractions, drivers should:
- Dedicate your full attention to the road
- Put away anything that could distract you
- Leave multi-tasking for when you are not driving
- Limit the number of passengers in your vehicle who can pull your attention
- Make any adjustments to your GPS, radio, seats, mirrors and AC before you get underway
2. Keep a Safe Distance Between Vehicles
Traffic will slow down as you approach and travel through a work zone. As congestion increases around you, you should make sure to keep a safe distance between your vehicle and those around you. If the vehicle in front of you suddenly comes to a complete stop or another obstacle obscures your lane of travel, you will need time and space to stop. Rear-end collisions are the most common type of car accident in construction zones. Although a minor fender bender may only cause limited damage to your vehicle, more serious accidents can cause severe damage and injuries.
3. Adhere to Posted Speed Limits and Other Signage
Speed limits change in construction zones for a reason. Make sure you follow the posted speed limit and obey all other posted signage in the area. Signs will warn you of upcoming construction zones, when you should merge, if there is a new traffic pattern and if there is a flagger ahead, among many other important messages. Always make sure you exercise caution and obey all signs and warnings.
4. Merge Responsibly
Merging in construction zones is often a serious hazard for motorists. When larger roads are reduced to one or two lanes, it can create confusion and congestion. Minimize your risk by merging early and well ahead of where the lane ends.
5. Plan to Avoid Delays
If you know that your route includes a construction zone, plan and give yourself extra time for your commute. Knowing where work zones are and checking traffic before you leave can help you avoid an unexpected delay. When setting out for your commute, you should also expect the unexpected. Traffic patterns can change daily and workers, equipment and work vehicles may unexpectedly enter your lane without warning.
6. Remain Calm
If you find yourself stuck in a construction zone track, please remain calm. Becoming angry and aggressive will not help you move through the area any faster, but it could push you to engage in risky actions that put you and the others around you in danger
The Exceptional Benefits Of Professional Vehicle Recovery Services
In today’s fast-paced world, vehicle breakdowns are not uncommon. Whether it’s a flat tyre, engine failure, or simply running out of fuel, finding yourself stranded on the side of the road can be stressful and potentially dangerous.
This is where we come into play. We have a long-standing history, yet we are forward-thinking, striving to improve and prevent Stranded Situations. One of the key benefits of our roadside assistance is its ability to prevent you from becoming stranded on the side of the road. Whether it’s a flat tyre, a dead battery, an accident, or a mechanical failure, as a reliable roadside assistance service we can come to your rescue, ensuring that you don’t have to wait hours for help to arrive. With us, you can expect Quicker, Quality, Cost- Effective Service… Always. Anytime, anywhere in Zimbabwe. 0780 579 261/0718 084 297 / 0736 523 424 Email: info@drivezim.co.zw for immediate assistance.