Providing safe highways for not only motorists, but for highway workers whose lives are on the line every day, is the top priority of the Nevada Department of Transportation.

Work zones are there to improve the roads that we all drive on. They are no place for impatient or aggressive driving. The signs and other directions given at work zones are intended to get you, your family and other motorists around you to your destination safely. So, when approaching a work zone, remember to slow down and follow all the important safety tips and information in the links in the menus to the right and left. Your life-and ours-depend on it!

Double Penalty in Work Zones!

Nevada Revised Statute 484.3667 doubles the penalty for speeding, up to $1,000, in any marked road construction or maintenance work zone when workers are present.

Work Zone Safe Driving Tips:

Always buckle up. Always slow to posted work zone speed limits. Pay full attention. Normal speed limits may be reduced, traffic lanes may be changed and people and vehicles may be working near the road. Minimize distractions, such as cell phone use. Keep consistent with traffic flow. Make any necessary work zone merges in advance and do not weave in and out of traffic when not needed. Only make lane changes when necessary and use proper turn signals for lane changes. Keep a safe distance from cars ahead, traffic barriers, construction equipment and workers. Don’t tailgate. The most common highway work zone crash is the rear-end collision. Watch for and follow all warning, lane/ramp closure and construction detour signs, and be prepared to change lanes or merge as directed by road signs or flaggers. Continue to pay attention to work zone signs, even in areas of long-term road work. Remain calm. Remember that work zones are not there to inconvenience you- they are necessary to improve the roadway. Don’t resume normal driving speed until you see roadway signs indicating it is safe to do so. Remember that all transportation and safety agency vehicles on the road are at work, whether inside a work zone or not. Drive attentively, as these vehicles may need to make quick stops or turns. Plan ahead and give yourself time to reach your destination. Simply dial ‘511’ or log onto www.nevadadot.com for a listing of Nevada highway construction.