What should you be prepared for when driving through highway work zones?

When driving through highway work zones, it is essential to be prepared for lane shifts or alternating lane closures. Work zones are set up to facilitate construction, maintenance, or repair of roadways, which often leads to changes in the typical traffic patterns. This may involve lanes being shifted to provide space for workers and equipment or having lanes temporarily closed, requiring traffic to merge or take alternate routes.

Being aware of these potential changes allows drivers to react appropriately, maintain safety, and reduce the risk of accidents. It's important to stay alert, pay close attention to posted signs, and follow any instructions from flaggers or signals that are present to guide traffic through these modified conditions. The safety of both the drivers and the construction workers relies heavily on awareness and adaptability to these work zone changes.