As the old adage goes, “April showers bring May flowers,” but April also brings more road construction projects, orange cones and flaggers. This week, April 21 through April 25, is National Work Zone Awareness Week (NWZAW), and Columbia Gas of Maryland reminds drivers to follow good safety practices in work zones, not only this week but every time they encounter road work crews.
Lane closures, changes in traffic patterns, and reduced speeds are common in work zones. While designed to keep everyone safe, they can also frustrate drivers. Disgruntled and distracted drivers are leading causes of work zone incidents, and flaggers and workers on foot face the greatest risk of being struck by vehicles or construction equipment when a car intrudes into a work zone.
“This week’s theme is ‘Respect the zone so we all get home’ and is a sober reminder that work zone incidents impact everybody, including workers’ families, so let’s do everything possible to protect each other,” said Mark Kempic, president and chief operating officer of Columbia Gas of Maryland. “Staying alert, minimizing distractions and following best practices are keys to worker safety and the safety of our work zones.”
Columbia Gas reminds motorists traveling through its work zones to exercise extra caution and be prepared for slowed or temporarily stopped traffic. Motorists encountering Columbia Gas work crews should follow these simple tips:
- Expect the unexpected – Normal speed limits may be reduced; traffic lanes may change; and people may be working on or near the road.
- Slow down – Speeding is one of the major causes of work zone crashes.
- Keep your distance – Keep a safe distance between you and the car ahead of you, and don’t tailgate.
- Pay attention to the signs – Observe the posted signs until you see the one that says you’ve left the work zone.
- Obey road crew flaggers – A flagger has the same authority as a regulatory sign, so you can be cited for disobeying his or her directions.
- Stay alert and minimize distractions – Dedicate your full attention to the roadway and avoid changing radio stations or using mobile phones while driving.
As part of NWZAW, April 23 is “Go Orange” Day, and Columbia Gas encourages people to wear orange to show support for work zone safety and for families affected by work zone accidents.
For more information about Columbia Gas of Maryland’s focus on safety, please visit www.ColumbiaGasMD.com/safety.
