**** RCMP Media Release

Slow down in construction zones this summer

Hitting the highway for your summer vacation? Whether you’re planning​ a cross-country road trip or just taking a quick day trip to the beach,​ it is important to​ help keep construction crews safe by driving cautiously.

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Construction​ work and traffic delays are a reality of driving in Nova Scotia over the summer. While motorists may find this irritating, it is never acceptable to drive recklessly or above the speed limit in construction zones.

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“When the road is your work space there are lots of threats,” says Cpl. Lisa Croteau of the Nova Scotia RCMP. “Distracted drivers, speeders, road rage: these are just some of the issues construction crews have to deal with. We ask you to help protect workers by driving safely and refraining from road rage.”

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To​ help keep construction​ crews safe, the RCMP is asking drivers to:

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• ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​Slow down and obey the posted speed limit when driving through construction zones.
• ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​Pay attention to sign flaggers and always obey their commands.
• ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​Stay alert and focused while driving; take note of where construction zones begin and end.
• ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​Always keep a safe distance between your vehicle and construction workers, equipment and vehicles.
• ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​Avoid driving while distracted. Leave cell phones, electronic devices and food alone.
• ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​Be calm, patient, and flexible when encountering traffic delays. Road rage will not get you there faster.

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The Nova Scotia RCMP will be in and around construction zones this month, ensuring driver compliance and worker safety.​ Speeding in a​ construction zone will result in a fine that is double​ what a normal speeding ticket would be and can run up to $697.50 for a first offence.

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Everyone deserves to return home from work safe and healthy. Please treat construction workers with respect and help keep roadways safe for everyone.