Construction zones demand a driver’s full attention, especially when operating a loaded truck. Narrow lanes, sudden detours, roadside equipment, and stopped traffic can tu
a small mistake into a serious crash. The FMCSA wa
s that nearly 900 people die each year in work zone crashes, and more than one-third of those crashes involve commercial motor vehicles.

One of the biggest dangers often appears before you even enter the work zone. Many drivers maintain their normal speed until they suddenly come up on stopped traffic or a closed lane. A loaded truck needs more room to stop, so slowing down early can make all the difference.

Watch for wa
ing signs well in advance, increase your following distance, and avoid unnecessary lane changes. Be ready for uneven pavement, workers crossing the roadway, construction equipment entering traffic, and passenger vehicles cutting in front of your truck.

Before reaching a work zone, set your GPS and check for possible detours. Do not handle your phone, navigation screen, or other controls while the truck is moving. A second of distraction can cause you to miss a sign, a flagger, or a line of stopped traffic.

At night, slow down even more when visibility is limited. Temporary lane markings can be confusing, and construction equipment may extend close to the travel lane. Keep both hands on the wheel and avoid following other vehicles too closely.

If traffic comes to a stop, tu
on your hazard lights to wa
drivers approaching from behind. Do not let delivery pressure or a tight schedule push you into speeding through a construction zone.

Arriving a few minutes late is better than not arriving at all. In work zones, staying alert, keeping your distance, and controlling your speed help protect your CDL, your load, construction workers, and everyone else on the road.