LAFAYETTE, La. – With the recent start of two FASTLANE rehabilitation and widening projects along I-10, between I-49 and the Atchafalaya Basin Bridge, DOTD encourages motorists to be aware of work zones and practice safe driving tips when driving through construction zones.
“We have seen a significant and alarming increase in crashes along this section of I-10 since construction began,” said DOTD Secretary Shawn D. Wilson. “Just as much as we care about enhancing our state’s infrastructure, we also care about the safety of motorists.”
During construction, motorists will incur changes made to road conditions to allow for the safe passage of vehicles, crews and equipment. This includes, but not limited to the following:
• Reduced speed limits
• Concrete barriers
• Narrow lanes
• Lane shifts
• Slow moving equipment
“When a motorist is behind the wheel, their actions could mean a life or death decision,” said Wilson. “In July 2017, our Department regrettably experienced what happens when a driver does not pay attention in a work zone, resulting in a DOTD worker paying the ultimate price with his life. For us, one death is one too many. That’s why we encourage motorists to choose life, by driving safe and driving responsibly.”
The following measures will be implemented to reduce speed through the corridor, which can minimize accidents and extended disruptions to travelers.
• Increased police presence
• Installation of speed trailers to record and display speeds
• Implementation of queue detection system
• Installation of single solid line to discourage lane changes in construction zone
DOTD will continue to monitor safety thru this corridor and may further enhance speed enforcement and safety, as this construction will last for more than two years.
When driving through a construction zone, drivers are encouraged to practice the following safe driving tips.
• Stay alert
• Pay close attention
• Remain cognizant of construction workers and police
• Minimize distractions
• Always allow for extra driving time
• Follow posted speed limits and other signs
• Make sure there is plenty of room between vehicles
• Minimize lane changes in work zones
• Expect the unexpected
• Turn on your headlights
• Be patient
As always, DOTD reminds motorists to buckle up and refrain from drinking and driving.
Motorists are encouraged to check the status of road conditions prior to beginning commutes by utilizing the following resources for the latest information regarding road conditions:
• MyDOTD: Motorists can receive information on local projects, lane and road closures, and other DOTD activity by signing up for MyDOTD at www.dotd.la.gov.
• 511 Traveler Information: Travelers can also find information regarding road closures and traffic by visiting www.511la.org or by dialing 511 from their telephone and saying the route or region about which they are seeking information. Out-of-state travelers can access the system by calling 1-888-ROAD-511 (1-888-762-3511).
• DOTD has several localized twitter accounts that provide up-to-date travel information. You can sign up to get the latest travel information on road conditions, traffic and ferries via Twitter here: http://bit.ly/2rQGlV9
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