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WORK ZONE SAFETY TIPS

Recognize work zone areas.

Work zones operate day and night. They can be moving or stationary. You can recognize work zone areas because they are marked with orange cones or barrels, concrete barriers, traffic control devices, mowers or vehicles with flashers.

Flaggers, surveyors or individuals in bright yellow-green or orange vests are the road crew members. Drive as if their lives depend on you!

Tips for Driving Safely in Work Zones

Expect the unexpected! (Normal speed limits may be reduced, traffic lanes may be changed, and people may be working on or near the road.)

Slow down! (Speeding is one of the major causes of work zone crashes.)

Don't tailgate! Keep a safe distance between you and the car ahead of you. (The most common crash in a highway work zone is the rear end collision, so leave two car lengths between you and the car in front of you. Don't tailgate.)

Keep a safe distance between your vehicle and the construction workers and their equipment.

Pay attention to the signs! (The warning signs are there to help you and other drivers move safely through the work zone. Observe the posted signs until you see the one that says you've left the work zone.)

Obey road crew flaggers! (The flagger knows what is best for moving traffic safely in the work zone. A flagger has the same authority as a regulatory sign, so you can be cited for disobeying his or her directions.)

Stay alert and minimize distractions! (Dedicate your full attention to the roadway and avoid changing radio stations or using cell phones while driving in a work zone.)

Schedule enough time to drive safely and check radio, TV and websites for traffic information. (Expect delays and leave early so you can reach your destination on time. Check the National Work Zone Safety Information Clearinghouse for information on work zone delays throughout the country and the Illinois Department of Transportation's web page for work zone information in Illinois.)

Be patient and stay calm. (Work zones aren't there to personally inconvenience you. Remember, the work zone crew members are working to improve the road and make your future drive better.)

If you have any questions, contact a Traffic Safety Officer at (630) 543-3080.