Work Zone Safety

Our biggest priority during the Main Street Reconstruction is safety – for the motorists, pedestrians, and construction workers.

During construction it is extremely important to remain alert to all signs and obey work zone speed limits. There are several other things that you can do when entering an urban work zone:

• Be alert.

• Pay close attention to signs and flaggers.

• Do not stop on the railroad tracks in congested traffic.

• Watch for pedestrians.

• Keep up with the traffic flow.

• Avoid distractions such as cell phones.

• Pedestrians must stay out of all work areas.

Too many motorists and workers are seriously injured or killed in the work zone every year and most of the deaths are motorists. Safety is the top priority for all road construction workers and must be equally important for every pedestrian and person behind the wheel. The most important things to remember when entering a work zone are to slow down and avoid anything that will distract you from concentrating on safe driving. By following a few simple steps, you can protect the lives of the construction workers, pedestrians and other motorists.

Safe Steps You Can Live By:

Always be aware that workers may be present. During construction season thousands of IDOT and private contractor personnel will be on the roads across the state. These workers will be on the job during the week, as well as on weekends, and in some cases at night.

Slow down. Posted speed limits are for your safety as well as the workers and they are the law. Dangers still exist in work zones even if workers are not present.
Be aware that there is a zero tolerance policy for violations in the work zones and that the fines are doubled.

Pay Attention. Traffic patterns in highway work zones can change during the day. Even drivers familiar with a particular road or work zone should watch for new lane closures and changing traffic patterns. Expect the unexpected.

Obey Signs. Signs, arrowboards, and flaggers are posted to guide you safely and efficiently through the work zone. Please obey the traffic signs.

Don’t follow too closely. One of the most common crashes in a work zone is the rear end collision. Drivers should make sure that they can safely stop their vehicle if traffic backs up. Be sure to allow at least 2 seconds of time between your vehicle and the car in front of you. This project will require lane closures. Drivers may have to slow down well below the speed limit and should be prepared to stop if there is congestion.

Please Be Patient.