Safety Tips for Driving in Work Zones

The Illinois Tollway is committed to keeping work zones safe for drivers and workers.

In partnership with the Illinois Department of Transportation and Illinois State Police the Tollway works to raise awareness that work zone safety affects everyone on the road.

Staying alert, slowing down and following traffic signs are simple actions that help protect lives.

Work zone safety is a shared responsibility.

STAY ALERT FOR WORKERS AND EQUIPMENT.
Watch for crews wearing high-visibility safety apparel, as well as construction vehicles entering and exiting the roadway.
- Give trucks and equipment extra space – they need more time to slow down and speed up
- Do not follow closely or cut in front of large vehicles

SLOW DOWN WHETHER OR NOT WORKERS ARE PRESENT. IT'S THE LAW.
- Obey posted speed limits
- Be prepared for sudden stops
- Maintain a safe following distance – rear-end crashes are one of the most common work zone incidents

WATCH FOR CHANGING ROAD CONDITIONS.
- Be alert for shifting traffic patterns
- Expect narrower lanes and uneven pavement
- Follow posted signs and directions

MOVE OVER.
Illinois law requires drivers to slow down and, when safe, move over for any stopped vehicle with hazard lights on, not just emergency and maintenance vehicles.
- Reduce speed
- Change lanes if possible
- Proceed with caution

DROP IT AND DRIVE.
Using any electronic device while driving is illegal in Illinois. Keep your attention on the road.

KNOW THE CONSEQUENCES.
Penalties for speeding in a work zone are severe:
- $250 for the first offense
- $750 minimum for second offense
- Hitting a worker can result in a fine of up to $25,000 and up to 14 years in jail

IF YOU NEED HELP, STAY IN YOUR VEHICLE.
- If you must pull over or are involved in a crash in a work zone, remain in your vehicle if it is safe to do so.
- Call *999 for non-emergency roadway assistance

Every action you take behind the wheel helps protect not only road workers, but also fellow drivers, passengers and yourself.  

Here’s the link to IDOT’s work zone page: Work Zones