Staying Alert and Prepared in Work Zones
If you live in the Phoenix area, you know that road construction is a common sight, especially during the hotter months when many projects are in full swing. Whether you’re commuting downtown or driving along Loop 101, staying alert and prepared in work zones is essential for your safety and the safety of those around you. At Mercedes-Benz of Arrowhead in Peoria, AZ, we care about keeping you and your luxury vehicle safe on every drive. That’s why we’re sharing these important tips on how to drive safely in a road construction zone.
Expect Speed Limits to Be Reduced
Construction zones almost always come with reduced speed limits—and for good reason. Slower speeds give drivers more time to react to changing traffic patterns, road surface changes, and the presence of workers or equipment. In Arizona, speeding in a work zone can result in fines, even if no workers are present. Always reduce your speed when you see orange signs and cones.
Keep a Safe Distance Between Vehicles
Tailgating is never a good idea, but it’s especially risky in a construction zone. Vehicles may stop suddenly due to lane shifts or unexpected detours. Keep a greater-than-usual following distance to protect yourself from rear-end collisions and give yourself plenty of reaction time.
Read and Comply with All Posted Signs
Signage in work zones may indicate changes like lane closures, new traffic patterns, or detour instructions. These signs are there for your safety. Read them carefully and follow them exactly—even if you’re familiar with the area. What was normal yesterday may have changed overnight due to ongoing construction.
Obey Crew Flaggers
Construction flaggers are trained to keep traffic flowing safely through work zones. Their directions take priority over traffic signals and signs during active construction. Whether they’re waving a stop sign or directing you through a detour, it’s crucial to follow their instructions promptly and respectfully.
Minimize Distractions
Put the phone down, keep both hands on the wheel, and stay focused. Road construction zones are full of activity—lane changes, sudden stops, construction vehicles entering or exiting—and distractions can lead to dangerous situations. Keep your eyes on the road and avoid adjusting navigation or music until you’re safely past the work zone.
Consider Alternate Routes
If you know construction is happening along your regular route, plan ahead and consider an alternate way to get to your destination. Apps like Google Maps and Waze can help you avoid heavy construction traffic and minimize delays. Less time spent in a work zone means less stress and a safer drive overall.
