Construction sites are an extremely dangerous area for both those working in them, and motorists who drive through them. Thankfully, though, we can take measures to try to prevent them. That includes putting up informative work zone signs at the site.
There are all kinds of signs available that give motorists a head’s up on any changes that will be occurring on the road that they should take note of. Some of the most common work zone signs seen include, “one lane road ahead”, “road construction ahead”, “right two lanes closed ahead”, “detour 500 feet”, “slow moving vehicle”, “shoulder work”, “be prepared to stop”, “accident ahead”, “bump”, “loose gravel”, “watch for trucks”, and “bridge out”.
When motorists see these signs on the road they may become distracted and focus on how it will delay their travels. However, it is important to keep in mind that these signs are truly there to inform us. These signs are in place for the dedicated workers who face potentially life threatening scenarios if drivers don’t pay attention. Signage is largely important in raising awareness for motorists that there are changing road conditions while alerting them that there are most likely workers onsite.
Motorists should always take note of signs that alert them of road workers and changing road conditions. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration there were over 87,000 crashes in work zones in 2010, this number grows each year due to increasing use of technology behind the wheel and distracted drivers.
Recently, ATSSA (American Traffic Safety Services Association) wrapped up the campaign “Don’t Be That Driver РATSSA Goes Orange for Work Zone Safety