Maryland Transit Administration

Keeping Safe in Work Zones

Any work zone requires a driver’s full attention, day and night; yet bridge repair work can be even more complex. Since the safety of drivers and road crews is the first priority of MDTA, the Hatem Bridge Preservation project includes safety measures that:

• provide predictable traffic patterns so drivers will know what to expect;
• keep construction workers and drivers separated at all times; and
• allows areas for drivers to pull over in case of emergency.

To keep the Hatem Bridge traffic moving as safely and efficiently as possible, MDTA reminds drivers to:

• Expect the Unexpected – Speeds may be reduced, traffic patterns may change, and workers and equipment may be on, or near, the road.
• Slow Down – Obey posted speeds. Loss of control due to speeding is a major contributor to work zone crashes.
• Watch for Construction Workers/Equipment – Keep a safe distance from all. Pay attention to work zone signs.
• Avoid Distracted Driving – Don’t use cell phones, iPods or PDAs. Refrain from cell phone conservations, checking email, text messaging, animated conversations with passengers, changing the radio or CDs, and eating. Devote your full attention to driving.
• Schedule Extra Time/Plan Ahead – Leave early and expect delays.
• If Your Vehicle Becomes Disabled – Remain in your vehicle and wait for assistance.

Learn how to reduce work zone crashes… and save lives.

On May 5, Lt. Governor Anthony Brown launched the Choose Safety for Life campaign, a traffic safety campaign aligned with the Strategic Highway Safety Plan to reduce fatalities and injuries on Maryland roadways.  The goal is zero fatalities on Maryland's roadway system and a substantial decrease in injuries.  The campaign compliments the overall efforts in Maryland's Strategic Highway Safety Plan.  For additional information, please click on the logo above or visit www.choosesafetyforlife.com.