admin Whether you’re looking at traffic control San Antonio or any other city, you might be curious as to why it exists. Construction happens every single day, all over the world. Why do we need to impede the flow of traffic to allow for these projects? Is it really necessary?
As it turns out, traffic control is a vital part of construction for a variety of reasons. By understanding why traffic control is necessary, you can better appreciate the efforts made to keep you safe while driving.
The Dangers of Construction Zones
You may or may not be aware that construction zones are pretty dangerous, but are you aware of exactly how dangerous they can be? Every year, construction workers are killed or injured while working on roads and highways.
In fact, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) reports that one in five worker fatalities in 2018 were in the construction industry.
Why is working in a construction zone so dangerous? There are many reasons, but some of the most common dangers include:
- Being struck by a vehicle
- Being struck by falling objects
- Electrocutions
- Slips, trips, and falls
In addition to workers being killed or injured, construction zones can also be dangerous for drivers and passengers. According to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), there were over 4,000 traffic fatalities in work zones in 2018. That’s an average of almost 11 deaths every day.
The vast majority of these fatalities (80%) were drivers or passengers in vehicles that were involved in crashes. However, pedestrians and bicyclists made up a significant portion of work zone fatalities as well (15%).
Construction workers accounted for less than 5% of work zone fatalities. While the number of pedestrian and bicyclist fatalities has gone down in recent years thanks to increased awareness and safety measures, the number of vehicle occupants killed in work zone crashes has actually increased. In fact, 2018 was the deadliest year for work zone traffic fatalities since 2007.
So what makes construction zones so dangerous for drivers? There are many factors that contribute, but some of the most common include:
- Speeding vehicles
- Distracted driving
- Reckless driving
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
Unfortunately, many drivers fail to slow down or exercise caution when driving through construction zones. This often leads to serious accidents that could have been avoided had drivers been more careful.
Construction zones are essential for repairing and maintaining our roads and highways. However, they can be extremely dangerous for both workers and drivers. It’s important to be aware of the dangers before entering a construction zone so that you can take precautions to stay safe.
The Most Common Types of Traffic Control
There are many different types of traffic control that are used in construction zones. The type of traffic control that is used will depend on the specific needs of the construction project. Some projects may only require a few cones and signs, while others may need more extensive measures.
The most common types of traffic control include:
- Cones and barrels
- Signs
- Flaggers
- Barricades
- Temporary traffic signals
These are just a few of the most common types of traffic control that you may see in a construction zone. Each one serves a specific purpose and helps to keep both workers and drivers safe.
Cones and barrels are often used to mark off areas where construction is taking place. They help to indicate where vehicles should not be driving so that they don’t enter the work zone. Barrels are also often used to block off lanes or exits that are closed due to construction.
Signs are another common type of traffic control. They help to warn drivers of potential hazards ahead so that they can slow down or take another route if necessary. Signs can also be used to indicate where workers are present so that drivers know to use caution.
Flaggers are often used in construction zones to direct traffic. They help to ensure that vehicles are moving through the work zone safely and in a timely manner. Flaggers can also be used to warn drivers of potential hazards ahead.
Barricades are often used to block off entire sections of roads that are under construction. They help to ensure that drivers do not enter the work zone and put themselves in danger. Barricades can also be used to block off exits or entrances to a construction site.
Temporary traffic signals are often used in construction zones where there is a lot of foot traffic. They help to control the flow of traffic so that pedestrians and vehicles can share the road safely. Temporary traffic signals can also be used to control the flow of traffic at an intersection where construction is taking place.
These are just a few of the most common types of traffic control that you may see in a construction zone. Each one serves a specific purpose and helps to keep both workers and drivers safe.
It’s important to be aware of the different types of traffic control that you may see when driving through a construction zone. By knowing what to expect, you can better prepare yourself for the conditions ahead.
Tips for Driving More Safely Through Construction Zones
As we’ve discussed, Construction zones can be dangerous for both drivers and workers. It’s important to use caution when driving through a construction zone to help avoid accidents. There are many things that drivers can do to stay safe while driving through a construction zone.
Here are a few tips for driving safely in a construction zone:
- Slow down and obey the posted speed limit.
- Speeding is one of the leading causes of accidents in construction zones. Obeying the posted speed limit will help you avoid costly fines and keep everyone safe.
- Pay attention and stay alert.
- Distracted driving is another leading cause of accidents in construction zones. Avoid using your phone or other electronic devices while driving through a work zone.
- Be patient and give yourself extra time to get to your destination.
- Construction zones often cause delays. By being patient, you can help reduce stress and keep everyone safe on the roadways.
These are just a few tips for driving safely in a construction zone. By following these tips, you can help reduce the risk of accidents and keep everyone safer in general, and that’s always a good thing.
In addition to following the tips above, there are a few other things that you can do to stay safe while driving through a construction zone.
- Plan your route ahead of time and know where the construction zones are. This will help you avoid them if possible.
- When driving through a work zone, pay attention to the flaggers and follow their instructions. They are there to help keep everyone safe.
- Be extra cautious when driving at night or in bad weather. Construction zones can be especially dangerous in these conditions.
It is incredibly important to make sure that you’re being as safe as possible when driving through construction zones. Being apathetic in this situation can lead to:
- Severe injury
- Death
- Property damage
- Accidents that cause delays for other drivers
Driving is one of the most dangerous things that we do on a daily basis. Annually, over six million car accidents occur in the United States. These accidents result in over three million injuries and over 40,000 deaths.
Car accidents are the leading cause of death for people ages 15-24. They are also the leading cause of death for people ages 25-34. In fact, car accidents are one of the leading causes of death for people of all ages.
There are many things that drivers can do to stay safe on the roadways. However, it’s important to remember that even the safest drivers can be involved in an accident. That’s why it’s so important to always drive defensively and be aware of your surroundings. By following these tips, you can help reduce your risk of being involved in a car accident in a construction zone.
The safer you are while driving through a construction zone, the more likely it will be that all of the workers will be able to make it home after their shift rather than ending up in the hospital, at best.
It’s hard to overstate how dangerous construction zones can be. By being cautious and aware of your surroundings, you can help make the roads a safer place for everyone.
Road Safety is For Everyone
Understanding the importance of traffic control is critical for anyone who uses the roads. Construction zones are dangerous places for both drivers and workers. By being aware of the dangers and taking precautions, you can help make the roads a safer place for everyone.
There are many things that drivers can do to stay safe in a construction zone. However, it’s important to remember that even the safest drivers can be involved in an accident. That’s why it’s so important to always drive defensively and be aware of your surroundings. By following these tips, you can help reduce your risk of being involved in a car accident.