Staying safe in a construction zone is always a gamble, but it’s one of the most important places to be concentrating on the road. I know that I’m always nervous when I am on the highway and I see that there’s a construction zone coming up. For me, that means that there will be unpredictable drivers, people going too fast or too slow, workers giving me dirty looks for not knowing what the heck I am doing, and the construction zone will seem to go on FOREVER. This is almost always my experience. But I am working on being better when it comes to construction zones, so I thought I would share my tips with you in case you also have this problem. Check them out!

You should always stay alert and try not to be distracted. Pay attention to the road – and I mean your FULL attention! Don’t listen to the radio (or at least don’t mess with your music), don’t use your cellphone, don’t eat… basically just don’t do anything that’s not driving. The road should be your priority at all times anyway, but when you are in a construction zone it’s even more important.

Keep your headlights on! Even if it’s broad daylight, make sure your lights are on. Just in case!

Make sure you’re in the right lane ahead of time. By right I mean “correct,” though the correct lane could be the right lane. Anyway! If the lanes are merging or closing, make sure you’re where you need to be so you don’t cut anyone off or get stuck behind traffic waiting to merge. The traffic patterns can change daily, so make sure you’re always paying attention to the signs.

Don’t tailgate other people! This ties into making sure you are obeying the speed limit. People can brake or accelerate in a split second, and you don’t want to be caught off guard. Besides, tailgating is illegal and also speeding in work zones can get you doubled fines in a lot of places. Be careful!

Always expect the unexpected. Things can change quick-as-anything in a work zone, and you don’t want to be caught off guard. Staying safe is the most proactive thing you can do in a work zone, so make sure you’re obeying the law and driving as carefully as possible.