Industry professional encourages driving safety in construction zones

I was excited to read an article in your March 21 issue ("Speed Limit Enforced in Construction Area") regarding enforcing the speed limit during the Route 1 and Route 130 construction project. As a homeowner in North Brunswick and a professional in the construction industry, I am especially excited and proud to remind your readers that April 8-14 is this year’s Work Zone Awareness Week.

The purpose of the week is to bring awareness to the traveling public about the dangers to construction workers and motorists that exist in highway work zones.

As the industrial relations director of the Associated General Contractors of New Jersey, a nonprofit organization devoted to heavy highway construction, I see firsthand the benefits of improving motorists’ awareness to prevent injuries and deaths in the state’s work zones.

From 1992 through 2000, work zone deaths across the nation annually average 777. This number is far too high and can be reduced if 10 easy safety guidelines are followed by motorists when traveling through a work zone.

1. Stay alert. Dedicate your full attention to the roadway.

2. Pay close attention. Signs and work zone flaggers save lives.

3. Turn on your headlights. Workers and motorists need to see you.

4. Don’t tailgate.

5. Don’t speed. Note the posted speed limits in and around the work zone.

6. Keep up with the flow of traffic.

7. Don’t change lanes in the work zone.

8. Minimize distractions. Avoid changing radio stations or using cell phones while traveling through a work zone.

9. Expect the unexpected. Keep an eye out for workers and equipment.

10. Be patient. Work zone crews are working to improve your ride.

Again, I urge all motorists to take these helpful hints into consideration when driving. Hundreds of lives could be saved each year simply by paying attention and following the tips above.

Brian Tobin

North Brunswick