Trucks have more accidents in highway work zones than other vehicles. Work zones can be very dangerous for all vehicles especially when traveling on the highway. It is important to be alert and prepared to slow down or stop in a work zone. Slowing down and allowing others to merge, will ensure a safe passage through work zones. Here are a few tips on work zone safety.

STAY ALERT- HIGHWAY WORK ZONES ARE UNSAFE Work zones are busy places where construction vehicles and workers are always moving. Stay alert and stay on the safe path that is designated throughout the work zone. Avoid work zones altogether by using alternate routes when possible. If you can't avoid work zones, allow for more time to travel, slow down, and consider sharing a ride with someone to reduce congestion.

TAKE YOUR CUES FROM TRUCKS Work zones often pop up suddenly. If you are not paying attention to the signs, you could find yourself in a serious accident. Trucks can be great indicators of trouble or slow downs ahead. Trucks have a height advantage and can see ahead of traffic. Paying attention to a truck's brake lights is a good signal of a slow down or work zone ahead. Truck drivers know the stopping limitations of their trucks, and pay close attention to traffic. Take your cues from trucks and you'll be prepared.

MERGE GENTLY Aggressive drivers can be extremely dangerous while driving in work zones. Work zones require time and courtesy. For a smooth passage through work zones, allow others to merge in front of you. Be especially considerate to trucks. They require more space to merge and are the least maneuverable vehicles on the road. Remember, trucks have large blind spots, making it difficult to see cars squeezing in close to the front and sides of their truck.

EXPECT THE UNEXPECTED!  Normal speed limits may be reduced, traffic lanes may be changed, and people may be working on or near the road.

SLOW DOWN!  Speeding is one of the major causes of work zone crashes.

DON'T TAILGATE!  KEEP A SAFE DISTANCE BETWEEN YOU AND THE CAR AHEAD OF YOU.  The most common crash in a highway work zone is the rear end collision, so leave two car lengths between you and the car in front of you.  So, don't tailgate.

KEEP A SAFE DISTANCE BETWEEN YOUR VEHICLE AND THE CONSTRUCTION WORKERS AND THEIR EQUIPMENT.

PAY ATTENTION TO THE SIGNS! The warning signs are there to help you and other drivers move safely through the work zone. Observe the posted signs until you see the one that says you've left the work zone.

OBEY ROAD CREW FLAGGERS!  The flagger knows what is best for moving traffic safely in the work zone.  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 cell phones while driving in a work zone.

KEEP UP WITH THE TRAFFIC FLOW  Motorists can help maintain traffic flow and posted speeds by merging as soon as possible.  Don't drive right up to the lane closure and then try barge in.

SCHEDULE ENOUGH TIME TO DRIVE SAFELY - CHECK RADIO, TV AND WEBSITES FOR TRAFFIC INFORMATION. (Expect delays and leave early so you can reach your destination on time. 

BE PATIENT AND STAY CALM  Work zones aren't there to personally inconvenience you.  Remember, the work zone crew members are working to improve the road and make your future drive better.