As Memorial Day weekend is under way and summer construction roadwork around the state revs up, the Minnesota Department of Transportation urges motorists to use extra caution while driving through highway work zones.

Memorial Day weekend is traditionally one of the deadliest on Minnesota roads during the spring and summer months.

In 2011, there were 1,796 crashes that resulted in eight deaths and 741 injuries in Minnesota state highway work zones alone, according to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety.

MnDOT encourages motorists to follow these recommendations while driving, and especially when encountering work zones:

• Use safety belts.

• Drive sober.

• Stay alert.

• Watch for signs and work zone flaggers.

• Minimize distractions such as using cell phones, eating or drinking.

• Avoid tailgating.

• Follow posted speed limits. Remember fines are double in work zones,

• Stay in one lane while driving through a work zone.

 

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