We’ve all seen the bright orange signs on the side of the road, reminding us to slow down and be aware of the construction ahead. It can be frustrating as the traffic slows down to a crawl, an orange vest directing the traffic every which way, but it is important that we respect the signs and directions. A car accident can easily happen if an aggressive driver begins getting impatient and plans out an escape route on his or her own accord. Construction is done for the betterment of all drivers out there, and it’s your duty as a driver to drive responsibly through these messy conditions.
How to Handle Construction on the Roads
As you approach a construction zone, it’s important to keep a few things in mind:
- Ensure that you slow down your speed immediately. Speed limits are changed for a reason, and usually it’s to protect your safety and the safety of other drivers on the road. There can be gravel, uneven pavement, or vehicles blocking your path, so be sure to follow the signs and directions around you. Make sure that you keep a safe distance between you and the vehicle in front of you, and be prepared to stop.
- Roadside assistance, utility workers, and surveyors are examples of people that might be present on the construction site. This is why it’s important to slow down and be on the lookout.
- Traffic-control workers will be using signals and signs to direct traffic, so follow their lead. They ensure that traffic runs smoothly and that vehicles stop where they need to.
- Be patient. Traffic will move slowly through areas with construction, and getting angry will not help the traffic move any faster. Reckless driving decisions can easily lead to a motor vehicle accident.
- The Highway Traffic Act has doubled the fines for vehicles speeding in a zone under construction with workers present. It’s also another offense if you are disobeying “Slow” or “Stop” signs directed by a firefighter or traffic-control person.
- If you are involved in a car accident in a construction zone, contact an accident injury lawyer to help you with your case.
It’s important to respect the directions you are given in an area of construction. It can be frustrating to slow down if you are late, but it’s imperative that you give yourself extra time and plan your route so that you get to where you’re going with extra time to spare.
Hiring a Toronto Personal Injury Lawyer
An accident injury lawyer in Toronto will ensure that you receive the compensation that you are eligible for if you are involved in a crash in a construction area on the road. Accident injury lawyers will fight for you and answer any questions you might have about your specific case. Book a free consultation with an accident injury lawyer at Sokoloff today.
Sources: http://www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/dandv/driver/handbook/section2.10.6.shtml