Even though summer is over, construction is still happening whether we like it or not. And just like every out-of-the-ordinary driving situation, there are different rules for conduct when it comes to driving through a work zone. Check out our tips for driving around construction safely below!

• Pay attention to the road. Don’t be distracted by things on the road or in your car, such as music or passengers. Make sure that all of your attention is on the road and the signs, as well as any traffic pattern changes or sudden stops in front of you.

• If you see a worker with a flag, follow their instructions.

• Make sure your headlights are on while you’re driving, no matter if it’s day or night.

• Watch the other cars on the road with you – other drivers can be unpredictable, so you should be prepared for anything to happen.

• Have patience, not only with yourself but with other drivers and the workers on the road. You need to get to where you’re going, sure, but it’s better to be a little late and safe than never get there at all.

• Merge and change lanes when and where you should. Don’t wait until the last minute – this can be dangerous and puts you at a high risk of getting into a collision.

• Don’t tailgate other cars. Work zones should also be called “sudden stop” zones, because people are definitely more liberal with the brakes than they would be elsewhere.

• Watch for speed limit signs and obey them. The speed limit can change several times, and if you get caught speeding through a work zone, the fines can be steep.