TOPEKA (KSNT) – Kansas transportation officials are urging drivers to respect work zones as construction continues on several big highway projects in the Topeka area.
Kate Craft with the Kansas Department of Transportation said in a press release on Feb. 11 that drivers should be mindful of upcoming traffic changes taking place in local project areas on Highway 24 and I-70. She urges drivers to obey all posted signs and traffic control devices when traveling through the work zones.
Work zone speed limit restrictions stay in place regardless of the time of day. Drivers need to obey posted work zone signs even on nights and weekends.
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The Kansas Highway Patrol warns that not following posted signs in work zones can result in heavy fines for people found to be violating them. Drivers may face doubled fines and court costs above $250 for such violations.
“Construction zones are among the most dangerous areas on Kansas roadways,” said KHP Lieutenant Chad Crittenden. “Speeding, distracted driving and disregarding posted signs put workers and motorists at risk. Following all road signs, slowing down and staying alert helps prevent crashes and saves lives.”
Both KDOT and the KHP warn people to avoid taking illegal or unsafe actions while behind the wheel and traveling through a work zone. Some of these include the following:
- Illegal U-turns within a work zone
- Not paying attention to signage and driving around barricades, cones or channelizers to get to a closed area, avoiding detours or changing directions of travel
- Illegal passing in no-passing zones or on the shoulder
- Distracted driving
- Excessive speeding
Highway workers face large risks while they maintain and improve Kansas’ roads. Drivers can help keep them safe while on the job by taking the following actions:
- Obey all traffic control devices and personnel
- Stay alert
- If possible, move over for stationary vehicles with flashing lights
- Slow down and maintain safe following distances between vehicles
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