| Safety Tip - Work Zones |
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Summer months are a very busy time on Oregon's highways. Not only is it the peak travel season for Oregon residents and visitors, but commercial vehicles, commuters and other motorists are still very active during the summer months. Because of the favorable weather conditions, summer time is also when much of the necessary maintenance occurs on our highways. On average, Oregon experiences about a dozen traffic related deaths and 350 injuries each year in work zones. Below are some simple tips that, if followed, will greatly increase the possibility that all highway users will arrive at their destinations safely and with minimal inconvenience:
- The number one, most important action a driver can take to make driving in works zones safer is to pay complete attention to the driving task.
- Reduce speed, obey traffic signs and follow the rules of the road.
- When the number of lanes are reduced in entering a work zone, resist any temptation to get ahead of other cars. Rather, exercise patience and courtesy and merge into the through lane as far in advance as possible. Be sure to allow adequate following distance to the vehicle in front of you.
- Treat roadway workers and other motorists with respect and courtesy.
- When drivers see orange – signs, cones, barrels, equipment – it should be an automatic clue to slow down and pay extra attention.
All Oregon public works officials, ODOT crews and utility companies respect the difficulty drivers have in negotiating the work environment and take every effort to make the area as safe as possible for them. The following links are excellent resources for highway construction information:
As a method of enhancing the safety of motorists and work crews in works zones, motorists will frequently note the increased presence of Oregon State Troopers in and around work zones. The Oregon Department of Transportation contracts with the Oregon State Police for additional traffic enforcement at work zones. To encourage safe driving practices in and around work zones, fines for moving related traffic violations are doubled.
As a reminder, please observe the above listed tips and be courteous and patient with other motorists. Doing so will greatly increase the possibility that your trip will be uneventful and enjoyable. The Oregon State Police wish you a safe and pleasant trip as you travel our beautiful state.
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