"A Roadwork Orange": Construction Zone Safety

Construction work is always occurring on one road or another. The work is arranged in a certain order to improve our roads and create a smoother and safer driving experience. Yet, what most people do not consider is that during the reconstruction process, roads are considerably more dangerous, especially to construction workers who are virtually helpless against a speeding, out-of-control, vehicle. When driving on such roads, be sure to abide by the “rules of construction,” known as the “three S’s.”

Speed

· Slow down when entering all construction sites, regardless whether there is or is not sign posted. Follow the posted speed limit and maintain your speed through the entire work area.

· On the off-chance that there is not a sign posted, travel at 45mph. Remember that these changes in speed apply whether work is occurring or not.

· Be mindful of construction workers on duty. When present, you must reduce your speed below the posted speed limit (i.e. move at 35mph when “Speed Limit 45”).

· Don’t return to your previous speed until you see a roadway sign telling you that you are permitted to resume non-construction, posted speeds.

Space

· Allow adequate stopping distance between your car and the car in front of you. You can maintain a safe following distance by counting the number of seconds between your two vehicles. After the one ahead passes an object, count the number of seconds until you pass it; you should count to at least three.

· Keep a safe distance from workers, barrels, machines, etc.

· Avoid passing on the shoulder or using the medians for any reason.

· In case of a complete stop in traffic, make sure that you can see the preceding car’s tires on the pavement when first stopping, so that you can get out of the traffic.

Stress

· Remain calm and don’t rush to pass through the area.

· Stay alert and avoid distractions.

· Watch for other vehicles and construction workers.

· Plan ahead. Check online or other resources for information about where construction work is occurring. You may decide to change routes or leave earlier.

There are additional common-sense rules and regulations to know in these situations. The immense length and weight of commercial semi-trucks requires them to turn much wider, make troublesome lane changes, and endure longer starting and stopping times. They need all of the space they can get in construction areas; please slow down or move over to provide this needed assistance. Sudden stops are frequent in these areas; it is wise to double your following and stopping distances to give a truck in front of you appropriate space.

Construction may also lead to closures of roads or ramps, causing detours. Plan ahead for these, too, and find the next easiest route to your destination. Road surfaces can suddenly change in construction zones. Be ready for new pavement, uneven pavement, and loose gravel. Finally, always obey instructions given by the workers themselves.

Remember, following safety precautions and following the laws of the roads reduces the risks of heavy fines, tickets, injuries, and death. Lawsuit Financial urges everyone to practice safe driving habits and act responsibly behind the wheel. In addition to the “three S’s,” the pro-justice lawsuit funding company encourages everyone to remember “three C’s" – "Concentration", "Caution", and "Common Sense".

Mark Bello has thirty-three years experience as a trial lawyer and twelve years as an underwriter and situational analyst in the lawsuit funding industry. He is the owner and founder of Lawsuit Financial Corporation which helps provide cash flow solutions and consulting when necessities of life funding is needed during litigation. Bello is a Justice Pac member of the American Association for Justice, Sustaining and Justice Pac member of the Michigan Association for Justice, Business Associate of the Florida, Tennessee, and Colorado Associations for Justice, a member of the American Bar Association, the State Bar of Michigan and the Injury Board.