Advice on driving through road works and working by the road
Research published by the UK Highways Agency suggests that travelling through road works puts both drivers and roadside workers at significant risk.
In the UK over 1,000 people are injured in road works on motorways and trunk roads during a typical year in 700+ accidents. Many other similar accidents go unreported.
As many as 1 in 1,000 roadside workers are killed in road works on motorways or trunk roads in England.
Roadside workers have the 16th most hazardous occupation in the UK; higher even than for military personnel.
This research led the Highways Agency to develop web-based information services for drivers on when and where road works are likely to be (see www.highways.gov.uk), so that they can be planned for and avoided.
If you have to drive through road works, however, the Agency provides the following guidance:
- Plan ahead and allow extra journey time;
- Take extra care and keep to the posted speed limit;
- Get into the correct lane in good time – and avoid switching;
- Concentrate on the road ahead – not the road works;
- Be alert for works traffic leaving or entering the road;
- Keep a safe distance – there could be queues in front;
- Observe all signs – they are there to help you.
“Given the dangers identified in the research, we are urging anyone working by the road to ensure their signing, lighting and guarding of the works is always to the book. All employees who work outdoors, or have to travel through road works should be vigilant at all times,” comments Andy Cuerden, European Managing Director at Interactive Driving Systems.
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