Transportation and Works
May 24, 2017
Motorists reminded to Slow Down, Drive Safely in Construction Zones
As the number of road construction projects increases in the coming weeks, motorists are reminded to drive safely when travelling through construction zones.
Construction crews are required to adhere to strict safety protocols and traffic control procedures, and members of the public are asked to also do their part to keep workers and other travellers safe.
Fines for speeding in a construction zone range from $100 to $1,500.
When approaching construction zones, motorists are advised to:
- Slow down and proceed with caution;
- Watch for construction crews;
- Pay attention to all signs – normal speed limits will be reduced and traffic lanes may have changed;
- Be patient and expect delays; and
- Keep a safe distance between your vehicle and construction workers, equipment and traffic barriers.
When construction activity appears limited or inactive, signs remain in place to indicate work is ongoing or to warn motorists of issues such as breaks in pavement, road shoulders that pose a risk to vehicles, or the potential for slow-moving traffic within the construction zone.
While travelling at a reduced speed or stopped in a construction zone, motorists are also reminded that activities such as texting are prohibited. Fines for using a cell phone while driving a motor vehicle on a highway range from $300 to $1,000.
Quotes
“Safety is a priority for the Department of Transportation of Works, the construction industry and all workers. For your own safety and the safety of those who work to improve our roadways, please drive with caution through all construction zones. The best way you can ensure the safety of everyone is to pay attention to your surroundings, avoid texting and slow down.”
Honourable Al Hawkins
Minister of Transportation and Works
“We would like to remind drivers to please be aware of our crews working in highway construction zones throughout our province this summer. Please slow down. Let’s ensure both workers and drivers make it home safely.”
Jim Organ
Executive Director, Heavy Civil Association of Newfoundland and Labrador
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Learn more
Updates on highway construction and maintenance report – www.roads.gov.nl.ca
Maintenance Crews Making Annual Road Repairs Throughout Province – www.gov.nl.ca/releases/2017/tw/0512n06.aspx
Five-Year Provincial Roads Plan – 2017 Edition
www.tw.gov.nl.ca/TenderingandContracts/PDF/5yearplan.pdf 
Follow us on Twitter: @GovNL 
and @TW_GovNL
Media contacts
Brian Scott
Transportation and Works
709-729-1758, 725-9201
brianscott@gov.nl.ca
Jim Organ
Heavy Civil Association of Newfoundland and Labrador (HCANL)
709-364-8811, 682-7141
jorgan.hcanl@gmail.com
2017 05 31 11:30 a.m.