AAA: Motorists need to be cautious about driving through Work Zones
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AAA: Motorists need to be cautious about driving through Work Zones
Washington, July 8 2009 - This year’s summer driving season could well mean increased construction activity due to extra funding for transportation projects. The nation’s largest motoring organization the AAA has warned users to use caution when driving through and approaching these work zones. The 2009 American Recovery and Reinvestment Act will mean that states and highways across the country will see major regeneration and building work leading to an increased number of workzones and construction work.
“It’s important for the driving public to be aware of the increased construction activity and to adjust to changing driving conditions and work zones when they encounter them, especially during this peak travel period.” Comment Robert L. Darbelnet, AAA President and CEO.
835 people were killed last year in work zone related accidents and it’s estimate that the vast majority (80%) of deaths are motorists themselves, not construction workers. The Federal Highway Administration has warned motorists to expect a work zone on average every 100 miles while travelling on the national highway system.
Staying Safe
The AAA recommends a few simple tips to avoid problems when coming into contact with these work zones.
- Plan your journey in advance to minimise your contact with work zones entirely. Not only can this provide you added safety but it could also save hours off your journey times as you can also avoid any associated traffic problems. The AA TripTik(R) Travel Planner is free for all users and stays up to date with all the latest traffic and travel news.
- Stay Alert – Keeping aware of your situation while driving through a work zone is incredibly important, as is obeying the directions of any member of the emergency services and road crew flaggers. As always, a minimal distraction environment both inside and outside of the vehicle is advised.
- Slow down - Reducing your speed can help you react more easily to problems on a work site. Almost all construction sites will have been reduced in work zones while workers are present, but as well as obeying whatever the temporary speed limit may be, it’s also wise to maintain a safe distance between construction equipment and other road users.
About the American Automobile Associati
The AAA is the largest leisure travel and motoring organization in the United States, providing over 51 million members with travel insurance and automotive related services. The not for profit organization was founded over 100 years ago and is the national leader in road safety and security for all American road users.
For further information please contact:
Troy Green
1000 AAA Drive, MS 75
Heathrow, FL 32746
Ph (407) 444-8000
Press Release Produced by: Staff From .
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