It’s warm out in Kentucky, and that means that construction crews are back on the roads. Whether it’s a neighborhood roadway, I-64 or I-75, downtown Lexington, Frankfort or other areas, you’re bound to run into construction work at one time or another. It’s common this time of year, and it can make traveling even a short distance a huge hassle.
The problem with construction is that it can make an already congested area into an area where you can’t pass easily. It can cause detours into unfamiliar neighborhoods and onto roads that never should have had so much traffic. Still, there are things you can do to prepare for this season of construction. Here are some tips to help you keep your vehicle in good shape and to protect you when you’re traveling in construction zones.
1. Prepare for traffic and give yourself time
Perhaps one of the most important tips to follow is the tip to give yourself plenty of time before going out, especially if you will be in an area with construction. A trip that normally takes you only 10 or 15 minutes could take twice as long (or longer in some cases), so leave early to give yourself time to get to your destination without rushing.
2. Check your vehicle after each pass through a construction zone
Another thing that can help you is to make sure you’re checking your vehicle and tires regularly. If your tire drives over a nail or piece of glass, it could deflate and cause delays or car crashes. In a worst-case scenario, you could end up stuck in the construction zone, backing up traffic even more than it already is. Every time you make it through the area, check your tires. If you do drive over a nail or piece of debris, make sure you get your tire repaired.
3. Plan your route ahead of time
Finally, plan your route ahead of time. You may be unfamiliar with the area, but looking at a map and seeing the layout of the roads can help you plan on ways to get around traffic and congestion. Always make a plan including a main and alternate route, so you don’t end up lost or struggling to find a safe route out of the construction zone.
With these tips, you can better handle construction. You’ll stay safer and keep workers and drivers less at risk, too.
