Advice for driving in construction zones and information about fines

According to the Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec, in 2018, nearly 700 people were injured in accidents in construction zones, and nine people lost their lives. Sadly, there are similar figures year after year. At Auto Value Certified Service Centers, we believe that these kinds of accidents could be avoided if everyone on the road committed to driving more carefully. In this article, we remind you of the actions drivers need to take when going through constructions zones as well as the fines for infractions.Obey road signsWhen driving through construction zones, drivers must heed the posted speed limits and other notices. These are always indicated on orange signs. It’s your responsibility to obey these signs, whether or not the drivers around you are doing the same.Too many traffic guards and construction workers are injured or killed by drivers who ignore construction signs. Keep in mind that road workers have minimal safety equipment to protect them — often no more than a helmet — and are vulnerable to cars.Adjust your drivingIt’s important to adopt the following driving habits when driving through a construction zone:• Start slowing down as soon as you glimpse an orange road sign• Obey the speed limit• Be alert, as workers may not be visible behind machines and other objects• Maintain a safe following distance• Follow the instructions of traffic guardsFines in construction zonesEvery year, there are a disproportionate number of accidents in construction zones, many of them involving road workers. For this reason, speeding fines are double in these areas. If, for example, you pass an orange sign displaying 70 km/h and the police clock you at 90 km/h, you’ll be fined $110 rather than $55.In addition, failing to obey the instructions of a traffic guard can result in a fine of between $200 and $400 and four demerit points.Too many drivers justify breaking the speed limit in construction zones by telling themselves that everyone is doing it. The annual statistics from the SAAQ will continue to be grim if people don’t rethink their attitude and respect the rules in construction zones. Help protect the safety of road workers by setting an example. Plan your tripsWould you prefer to avoid construction zones all together? Before you get behind the wheel, consult this online tool from Transport Québec which will show all construction zones and closed roads in your area at any given moment. Trust the experts at Auto Value to keep your car safe and running smoothly. Schedule an appointment at your closest Auto Value Certified Service Centerstoday.Service is the difference. We get it!