Drive Safe, Save Lives: “Respect the Zone” in LA Construction Areas

While Louisiana drivers should always slow down and be careful in road construction areas, this week it's even more important.

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In a release from LWCC, we're reminded that this time of year is especially dangerous in road construction work zones across the state.

According to Damian Simoneaux, LWCC Safety Services Manager, “This is the time of year when increased road construction projects and busy travel holidays converge, which is a dangerous combination if you’re not paying close attention.

Simoneaux goes on to say, “We all want to get home safely, and a little extra caution goes a long way to protect drivers, passengers and road construction crews on the job.”

And this week, April 21-25, in honor of National Work Zone Awareness Week, drivers are being urged to do their part to protect both road crews and fellow commuters by slowing down, staying alert and driving with caution in the many work zones across the state.

This year's campaign, themed “Respect the Zone So We All Get Home,” reminds all drivers how that extra caution can significantly reduce struck-by incidents, which is the leading cause of nonfatal injuries and the second-highest cause of death in the construction industry.

LWCC points out a number of Safety Tips and Reminders we should all practice regularly while traveling through a road construction zone.

• Stay attentive and avoid distractions, including handheld devices.
• Don’t tailgate. Keep a four-second (or greater) distance between you and the vehicle in front of you.
• Expect the unexpected as workers or equipment may enter your lane without warning.
• Look ahead at a travel distance of at least 15 seconds.
• Be patient and stay calm‍.

Remember These Things When Driving Through Road Construction in Louisiana

• Construction signs, cones, barricades and flaggers are there to protect workers and keep traffic moving safely.
• Warning signs, which are usually orange, alert drivers to upcoming construction zones.
• Orange warning signs alert drivers to upcoming construction zones.
• Speed limits are always reduced in roadside construction zones. For example, if the posted speed limit on an interstate is 70 mph, be prepared to slow down to 45 mph or 50 mph.
• Speed limits are often reduced in roadside construction zones. Be prepared to slow down.
• Drivers should be prepared for lane closures, detours, construction workers and police officers directing traffic.
• Temporary structures like cones, barricades and heavy equipment can reduce visibility and make it harder to anticipate changes in traffic flow.