Drivers: slow down and drive safely in construction zones

Whitby, Ontario – Durham Region’s Works Department is reminding drivers to slow down and proceed with caution through construction zones or areas where workers are present.

“We know—traffic delays due to construction can be frustrating! But construction is necessary for a growing municipality like Durham Region. Lane restrictions and road closures are required to complete work safely and efficiently,” said Ramesh Jagannathan, Director of Transportation and Field Services for Durham Region. “In order to protect the safety of workers, other drivers, cyclists and pedestrians, we’re asking drivers to please slow down and proceed with caution on roads where construction or maintenance is underway. Thank you for your patience and co-operation as we work to improve the Regional road network and other important infrastructure.”

Never make a U-turn to avoid construction; and be sure to pay attention to signage, reduce your speed and increase your following distance. Plan your route ahead and leave extra travel time.

All construction zones or areas marked for roadside work in Durham Region are blocked off by pylons, measured to meet provincial standards. Speed limits are reduced in construction zones, and fines are doubled when workers are present.

Durham Regional Police often pay special attention to construction zones, given how vulnerable road-side workers are and how dangerous speeding through these work sites can be. The DRPS has investigated numerous collisions at construction zones and many are caused by distracted drivers who are watching their phones instead of the pylons and signage ahead. 

This initiative is in support of Durham Vision Zero, a long-term plan to ensure a safe transportation system that sees no lives lost or serious injuries on Durham’s roadways. Learn more at durham.ca/VisionZero.

For information about current and upcoming Regional construction, design and environmental assessment projects, visit durham.ca/WorksProjects.

– 30 –

For more information, please contact Corporate Communications.