When you’re a rideshare driver, it’s important to pay attention to the most common causes of accidents. Why? You’re on the road too often to ignore the risks. A lot of accidents are avoidable, and you can lower the risk of your own human error causing an accident.
Road construction is one of the causes that often go overlooked – and it shouldn’t.
Driving in a road construction area must be done with the utmost diligence. You need to be very cautious, and if a road worker is struck, it may lead to a fatal accident.
Pennsylvania released statistics that show 47% of work zone crashes in 2014 resulted in fatalities.
Construction companies, plumbers and transportation departments are working on safer, faster methods to make repairs.
“Trenchless solutions are repair and replacement projects that are conducted without the need to dig up your yard to access sewer pipes that are buried underground, and trenchless pipe lining is one of these processes,” explains Snowbridge.
But as this technology is still being developed, it’s imperative for all drivers to adhere to the following:
- Speed limits. It can be very frustrating to go from a 65 MPH zone to a 25 MPH zone, but it’s important to follow the work zone speed limits. These limits allow you to react to hazards in the road, lower the risk of fatality if an accident does occur and is what is required by law.
- Watch for flaggers. Flaggers must be watched at all times. These individuals will be there helping to direct traffic and make sure that you stay out of harm’s way. Signage may also be available to alert you that a flagger is ahead. Slow the vehicle at this time and wait for the right steps to take from the flagger.
- Maintain a safe distance. Don’t tailgate and ride close to vehicles in front of you. Instead, you’ll want to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you. In the event that the driver slams on his brakes or an accident occurs, you’ll have ample time to react and stop.
- Put down your phone. Distracted driving is on the rise, and the reason is because everyone is on their cell phone – all the time. People are taking selfies when they’re driving, and this is on top of talking, texting, posting on social media and more.
- Be patient. Do not start to rush. Work zones are dangerous enough without everyone honking on their horns and trying to pass each other. If a passenger is rushing you, remember one key rule: safety first. If you lose your patience, you’re putting yourself, your passenger and the construction workers all at-risk.
Work zones require drivers to be diligent, and this means adhering to traffic and safety laws. You risk a serious accident, damage to your vehicle and potentially killing one of the construction workers by not following safe driving habits.
When in doubt, slow down, put on your hazards, buckle up and pay attention to flaggers to ensure your own safety.
