Road Construction – Work Zone Safety
Road Construction/Work Zone Safety
As anyone living in the Southeast knows, there are actually 5 seasons: Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall, and Road Work. Considering recent developments in Metro Atlanta, the Road Work Season has begun in a brutal fashion.
Work zones are hazardous for all drivers, more so for motorcyclists. With less stability, the rider must be alert for potential danger. Some work zone road hazards include:
Gravel/Sand on Pavement. Slow down, no sudden turns, and brake lightly in a straight line.
Grooved Pavement. Keep your head up. Keep a steady throttle, go slow, and don’t fight the handlebars.
Oil/Fresh Tar. Go slow and avoid sudden movements.
Uneven Temporary Pavement. Scan ahead and pick the smoothest line. Be aware of height differences in lanes repaved and waiting to be paved. Crossing into the higher lane at higher speeds could cause a loss of control.
Crowned Roads. This is a road that is higher in the middle than on the sides. Be aware of the angle on straight lines, and use caution on curves to the left. The lean angle will be less than a flat road.
Objects. Scan ahead. Increase your distance between other vehicles to allow maneuvering. And of course, try to go around the object!
Ride Safe!
Chuck Watwood
770-650-0016
