This summer, new laws regarding construction zones are going into effect in Virginia. As of July, handheld cell phone use in work zones is banned, with violators being charged a $250 fine.
So slow down, put your phone down, and respect the zone.
In 2018 alone, Virginians were involved in 2,523 work zone crashes. On average statewide, there are more than 7 crashes per day each year in work zones.
Plus, four out of every five work zone fatalities are drivers. It is vitally important to drive safely and stay alert, not just for the workers along the road, but for yourself and your fellow travelers.
Work zone hazards such as moving construction vehicles, limited visibility, night work and close proximity to traffic make driving conditions more challenging for travelers. With the summer months being a heavily traveled time, we want to remind Virginians to take caution on the roads. In order to stay safe this summer, here are a few tips for driving in work zones:
- Increase your following distance behind other drivers.
- Minimize distractions and stay focused on the road.
- Follow instructions from work zone flaggers.
- Don’t assume workers aren’t there just because you don’t initially see them.
- Check the traffic conditions by dialing 511 before you hit the road.