National Work Zone Awareness Week
PIERRE, S.D. – National Work Zone Awareness Week for 2019 is April 8-12.
The South Dakota Department of Transportation is teaming up with the Federal Highway Administration and state transportation departments across the country to remind motorists to drive safely through work zones.
Secretary of Transportation Darin Bergquist said in a press release, “we understand work zones can result in delays and frustration. But, when motorists drive recklessly through work zones, they are putting the lives of highway workers, themselves, other drivers and passengers at risk.”
SDDOT is asking motorists driving through work zones to slow down, give their full attention to the cars and work going on around them, and to drive like you work here.
The SDDOT encourages motorists to practice the following safety tips when traveling through work zones:
- Plan Ahead – Expect delays and plan for them.
- Don’t Speed – Reduce speed before entering a work zone. If other motorists are speeding, don’t follow the bad example. Remember, fines are double in work zones.
- Avoid Distractions – Dedicate full attention to the road. Avoid distracting activities like adjusting the radio and talking or texting on a cell phone.
- Expect the Unexpected – Be extra vigilant because the traffic patterns and speeds are different than normal.
- Be Prepared to Stop – Signs and work-zone flaggers save lives.
- Don’t Tailgate – Maintain adequate and safe distances from workers and other vehicles.
- Be Patient – Remember, road crews are working to improve your future ride. Someone’s family is expecting them home at the end of their shift.
To obtain the most recent road construction information in South Dakota, please visit http://www.safetravelusa.com/sd and click on the orange signs or dial 511.
