On Friday, October 9, 2020, a 45-year old construction worker was struck and killed when an impaired driver drove into an area of closed lanes that were under construction on I-75 near Ruskin. While this accident serves as a strong reminder as to the dangers of impaired driving, it is also a reminder of the importance of safety precautions when driving through a construction zone.
According to the Florida Department of Transportation, in 2016 Florida had the 2nd highest number of fatal traffic crashes in work zones in the nation, and data shows that workers were present in the work zone in 35% of the fatal crashes and 44% of crashes resulting in serious injuries. Although these are 2016 numbers, given the increase in Florida’s population and the corresponding increase in construction throughout the state, these numbers are unfortunately likely to be higher now.
When encountering a construction zone, it’s important that you be aware of everything that is going on around you. In addition, the following safety precautions should also taken:
Construction Zone Safety Tips
A construction zone involves workers, trucks, equipment, and often requires detours and lane closures, all of which can be very distracting to a driver. Here a few safety tips that can easily be used to protect yourself and the workers present from unnecessary danger.
Research your route ahead of time to prepare for work zones.
Use marked detours when possible.
Move early into open lanes during work zone traffic shifts.
Go slow and obey all signs and signals.
Leave extra space between yourself and the vehicle in front of you. This will allow you to stop suddenly, if needed, without striking the vehicle in front of you.
Never cut off a truck or bus. Although you may be prepared to do so, the other driver will not be.
Give workers extra room. If possible, move over into the other lane when driving past a worker.
Slow down as you approach workers.
Be prepared to stop.
Stay Alert at all times and avoid all distractions. Stay off your cellphone and avoid eating, drinking, or any other activity in your vehicle that may distract you from your surroundings.
Trust SouthShore Injury Attorneys With Your Ruskin Car Accident Claim
These are just a few of the tips you should use while driving through a construction zone. Unfortunately, no matter how safe a person tries to be, accidents can still happen. If you’re in need of help following a car accident, the attorneys at SouthShore Injury Attorneys are experienced in representing personal injury cases throughout the State of Florida. If you’ve been injured as a result of someone else’s negligence, contact SouthShore Injury Attorneys at (813) 419-3866 for a free consultation.
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