Do you feel confident driving in a construction zone? While it may be part of an ordinary drive time experience for some drivers here in Charlotte, driving in these zones requires an adjustment to your typical drive time habits for safety and also so you're staying legal behind the wheel. Toyota of N Charlotte is here with tips to help you quickly adjust to driving in a construction zone - check it out.
8 N Charlotte Toyota tips for driving in construction zones
Tip #1: Be ready for delays.
Construction zones can cause delays and slowdowns with lane changes, reduced speed limits, and other interruptions. If you know one is in your route, be sure to allow a bit of extra time to make up for the delays. And don't be tempted to speed or engage in distracted driving to make up the lost time if you do hit a delay - your risk of collision goes way up when you engage in these behaviors.
Tip #2: Slow down.
You should always slow down when you enter a construction zone - this allows you to react more efficiently should you need to suddenly brake or move, and it also keeps the workers safe. Remember, speed limits are typically reduced in construction zones anyway and speeding tickers are almost always doubled if not tripled. Slow down!
Tip #3: Pay attention to road signs.
Pay close attention to any and all road signs in the construction zones. These signs will alert you to things like new speed limits, merges, lane changes, workers, and more.
Tip #4: Watch the flaggers and follow their instructions.
Flaggers are there to help direct traffic and ensure you navigate the construction zone safely. Don't take them for granted - follow their directions and also watch out for them. Driving past them without heeding their instructions puts your safety and theirs in jeopardy.
Tip #5: Use the "take 10" rule to change lanes.
If you need to change lanes in a construction zone, use the "take 10" rule. Signal with your turn signal for three full seconds before you move, and then use the remaining seven seconds to slowly change lanes. This gives drivers around you plenty of time to notice and react to your movements.
Tip #6: Use your best defensive driving abilities.
Construction zones are a great place to put your defensive driving skills into play. Be especially aware of your surroundings and the vehicles around you to ensure you can avoid an accident or collision instead of reacting to it as it's happening.
Tip #7: Don't engage in distracted driving.
Anything can happen when you get behind the wheel and especially in a construction zone. You should be prepared for anything and this means not engaging in distracted driving - instead, keep your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road so you can devote your full attention to the task at hand.
Tip #8: Don't jump the gun when you get near the end of the zone.
You may be tempted to put your foot on the gas and speed things along as you near the end of the construction zone, but don't - wait until you're well clear of it to resume your normal speed and drive time habits.
Let Toyota of N Charlotte answer all of your drive time questions today
Have questions? Call us! Toyota of N Charlotte is here for ALL of your automotive needs and questions seven days a week at (704) 875-9199. We're conveniently located at 13429 Statesville Road, just off I-77 at exit 23 in Huntersville.
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