They say there are two seasons in Canada: winter and construction. Well, construction season is here, the ‘signs’ are all around!

People can easily become frustrated, annoyed and impatient if they come upon a road construction zone. This could potentially cause their driving to become unsafe. Below are tips provided by Ontario’s Ministry of Transportation to keep in mind when one comes upon a construction zone to help keep everyone safe.

Plan ahead:
• Allow yourself extra time – often signs are present announcing construction prior to it starting. If you know there will be delays or closures, give yourself extra time to get to your destination without speeding.
• Plan an alternate route if you know of a road closure in advance.
• If you are taking an alternative route, others probably are as well. Use good judgement and drive defensively knowing there is most likely increased traffic on those roads.

Slow Down:
• Speeding can be dangerous and costly. Construction zones often have lower speed limits posted. Fines are higher when construction workers are present.
• Keep a safe distance between you and the vehicle in front of you.
• Don’t tailgate as sudden stops are common.

Pay attention:
• Concentrate at all times. Don’t distract yourself with the radio or eating and drinking while driving.
• Never be on your cell phone. It’s against the law with hefty fines!
• Watch for workers, signs, traffic signals, pavement markings or uneven pavement.
• Obey any signs such as detours, road closures, ‘road work ahead’ and road conditions.

Obey the traffic control person:
• They are there to help you make it through a construction zone safely. Obey their instructions.

Road construction is a necessary evil in Canada and the timeframe to complete it is rather short. Please do your part, making safety your priority. It is everyone’s responsibility to make sure that construction zone workers and all drivers get home safely to their families at the end of the day.

The above tips were sourced from: www.mto.gov.on.ca/documents/english/traveller/constructionzone.pdf