Safety focus on work zones in July

Work zones. They are a pain, especially during vacation season, but there is simply too much at stake to take them lightly, SGI says.

In 2014, the last year for which statistics are available, there were 203 collisions in Saskatchewan work zones. One person was killed and 48 others were injured.

This month, police will be paying special attention to drivers speeding and exhibiting other aggressive driving behaviour in work zones, such as stunting, racing, ignoring construction signage or illegally passing other vehicles.

“Road safety is everyone’s responsibility, and drivers need to be extra diligent when there are workers on the road,” said Earl Cameron, executive vice president of the Auto Fund. “Those workers depend on you to slow down, pay attention and respect work zone signage – so they can get home safely to their own loved ones at the end of the day.”

SGI recommends drivers keep these tips in mind to ensure all road users are safe while travelling through construction zones: slow to 60 km/h in highway work zones or the posted speed limit in municipal work zones; follow the directions of work zone signs at all times; avoid distractions and be alert for workers, equipment and other hazards; plan your route ahead of time to avoid work zones or allow extra travel time; and drive with courtesy and patience for all drivers and workers.

One of the major complaints motorists have and don’t understand about work zones is that they remain in effect even when workers are not present. The provincial insurer points out the rules are not solely to protect workers, but also road users. There are potential hazards in work zones such as sharp drop-offs or rough road surfaces.