Highway accidents occur by the thousands across the country each year. According to recent 2017 reports, more than 200 people lost their lives on Minnesota highways, with tens of thousands of individuals suffering injuries. Unsurprisingly, construction zones along the highway are often factors in these accidents due to congestion, unexpected lane changes and speed fluctuation.
Current Road Construction Conditions Around the Twin Cities
In and around the Twin Cities, there are some large highway construction projects underway. Currently, vehicles traveling in these areas are experiencing slower than average movement.
As you commute through the Minneapolis/St. Paul metro, be aware of these current construction sites and plan for delays:
- The 94 & 35-W corridor in downtown Minneapolis
- 694 around Rice Street and 35E
- 35E & 35W split near Forest Lake
- 494 & 694 interchange on 94E
To check the status of construction projects around where you live, work or play, you can use the Minnesota Department of Transportation’s Current Construction list.
Protect Yourself in Construction Zones
Although road construction is required to keep our highways and freeways in good repair, they can provide more hazardous driving conditions. Use these tips to stay safer while traveling through construction zones:
- Stay alert and drive distraction-free: The unexpected can happen within a work zone, from quick lane changes to workers stepping too far out into the road. Pay attention and avoid distractions such as your mobile device.
- Look for signs and flaggers: Pay attention to all signs and flaggers. After all, work zones are full of bumps and uneven lanes that can cause you to lose control of your vehicle.
- Practice the zipper merge: To keep traffic moving (instead of coming to a dead standstill), practice the zipper merge: one car from each lane moves forward at a time at the merge point. Do NOT merge early. Learn more about the zipper merge here or watch a brief video here.
- Obey posted speed limits: Work zones have posted speed limits to help keep you and construction workers safe. Plus, there are consequences such as large fines if you get caught speeding through these zones.
Highway Accident? Call an Experienced Accident Attorney.
Have you been involved in a vehicle accident while on a freeway in the Minneapolis/St. Paul metro? We recommend reaching out to an experienced personal injury attorney who can help you receive the compensation you deserve. Give us a call at 612-874-6109 or send us a message.