Drivers, Slow Down for Construction Workers

Summer is the perfect time for construction crews to maintain, renew and beautify our roads. However, it is up to motorists to be aware and slow down near construction sites.

“We want to remind drivers that construction workers are someone’s dad, mom, partner or relative,” said Lloyd Hines, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal. “We’re asking drivers to slow down and stay alert when driving through work zones to ensure the safety of these workers.”

In Nova Scotia, fines are doubled for drivers speeding in work zones and demerit points are also assigned to drivers’ records. Fines, including court costs, can range from $352 for a first offence to $2,422 for a third.

“We in the road-building industry see speeding and inattention by motorists as they approach construction sites as the top safety issues,” said Grant Feltmate, executive director of the Nova Scotia Road Builders Association. “We strongly urge people to slow down, obey speed limits and be very alert.”

In addition to slowing down, drivers can help ensure the safety of road workers by:

• staying alert and minimizing distractions
• keeping a safe distance from workers and equipment
• respecting work zone signs, warnings and flaggers
• expecting the unexpected
• keeping a safe distance from other vehicles

The province has launched an ad campaign to remind motorists to slow their speed and be considerate of workers in construction zones when passing.

For more information on road safety, go to:
https://novascotia.ca/tran/roadsafety/roadsafety.asp .