MidCoast Council is calling on motorists to take greater care at road work sites, following an increase in reports of drivers ignoring signage and traffic control measures across the region.
MidCoast Council is calling on motorists to take greater care at road work sites, following an increase in reports of drivers ignoring signage and traffic control measures across the region.
With Road Safety Week approaching, Council is reminding the community that these behaviours are not only illegal but place the lives of workers and other road users at serious risk.
Executive Manager Transport and Engineering, Marnie Coates, said it was frustrating and concerning to see unsafe behaviour continuing at active work sites.
"Every day, our crews are working on the road network with traffic moving around them. When drivers ignore traffic controllers or speed through work zones, they are putting people's lives at risk," Ms Coates said.
Council acknowledges that traffic control measures can sometimes cause delays and inconvenience. However, these controls are essential to allow critical maintenance and improvement works to be carried out safely.
"We understand that road works can be frustrating. However, these works are necessary to improve the condition of our roads and ensure a safer network for everyone," Ms Coates said.
"We want our workers go home to their families at the end of the day, we're asking the community to show respect, slow down, and follow all signage and directions at road work sites."
Motorists are reminded to:
• Slow down and obey speed limits in work zones
• Follow all signals, signage and directions from traffic controllers
• Be patient and allow extra time for travel
• Stay alert and drive to the conditions
Council is committed to improving the road network across the MidCoast and delivering essential maintenance and upgrades. Community cooperation is critical to ensuring that this work can be completed safely and efficiently.
As Road Safety Week approaches, Council urges all drivers to consider the impact of their behaviour and play their part in keeping workers- and each other- safe on our roads.