Last year, 38 people were killed in work zones. To bring attention to worker and driver safety, April 8-12 is Work Zone Awareness Week.

RALEIGH, NC (April 4, 2019) — The N.C. Department of Transportation urges motorists to obey the posted speed limit, avoid distractions, watch for workers, and expect the unexpected in work zones.

Driving in Work Zones

Even though workers might not be present in work zones, motorists should still expect narrowed or closed lanes, traffic shifts and reduced speed limits as well as other conditions that might affect normal travel.

* Stay alert: Dedicate your full attention to the roadway.

* Pay close attention: Signs and work zone flaggers save lives.

* Watch out for road debris.

* Turn on headlights: Workers and other motorists must see you.

* Don’t tailgate.

* Don’t speed: Be patient and obey posted speed limits. The penalty for speeding through a marked work zone is $250.

* Keep up with the traffic flow.

* Don’t change lanes in a work zone.

* Minimize distractions: Avoid changing radio stations and using mobile phones while driving a work zone.

* Expect the unexpected: Keep an eye out for workers and their equipment.

* Watch out for road debris.

* Don’t drink and drive.

* Use alternate routes, when possible, to avoid traffic congestion.

Leave early to get a head start on your drive and travel at non-peak times.

https://www.ncdot.gov/initiatives-policies/safety/driving-safety/Pages/work-zones.aspx