Motorists Reminded to Cool Their Heels in Road Construction Zones

It's a sure sign of summer in Nova Scotia -- road construction. As the days start to heat up and work crews begin maintaining and enhancing the province's roads, motorists are reminded to cool their heels when entering and passing through road construction zones.

"In exchange for better roads, drivers need to be patient over delays and considerate of road workers," said Angus MacIsaac, Minister of Transportation and Public Works.

Orange cones, traffic drums, and temporary condition signs are usually all that stand between highway workers and drivers during road construction. Drivers can get frustrated with delays, triggering dangerous behaviours.

Don Maillet, president of the Nova Scotia Road Builders Association, said the least mistake by a driver can lead to vehicles entering the work zone and injuring or killing workers.

"Motorists need to slow down, pay attention and understand the signs, keeping them and our workers safe," Mr. Maillet said.

Drivers should remember to:

• Pay attention to their driving and follow the signs, especially in their approach to the work area.
• Adjust their speed when they see orange barrels, cones and signs. Watch for traffic slowing down, and traffic approaching from the rear.
• Refrain from passing other cars in a work zone or in the transition area.
• Expect the unexpected. Fewer lanes, new detours, a traffic control person -- the roadway may change. Even when motorists do not see work underway, there could still be hazards.
• Increase space between vehicles, to allow extra reaction time in case of a problem.
• Plan ahead and leave extra time to arrive at their destination.

The province and the Nova Scotia Road Builders Association launched a work zone safety campaign this week. Radio, television and print ads will remind drivers that there are people behind the signs, and to use caution when approaching or traveling through road construction zones.