Traffic control in construction zones must conform to temporary traffic control plans and the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices.

Non-standard traffic control devices can create hazards.

Signage should be clear and concise, not confusing.

Failure to remove old pavement markings confuses motorists.

Storing equipment or materials adjacent to traffic without adequate protection can lead to crashes.

Temporary Traffic Control Zones

Temporary traffic control zones, even when done properly, can confront motorists with unexpected and confusing situations. When done improperly, the results can be tragic.

By their nature, work zones can create obstacles with which motorists can collide, divert motorists’ attention from the driving task, and expose workers to hazardous situations. Some of the most common situations that occur are:

• Pavement edge drop offs
• Rear-end collisions resulting from unprotected end-of-queue backups
• Parking equipment and storing materials within the clear zone
• Inadequately trained flaggers

Multiple parties are often involved in the planning, design and implementation of temporary traffic control zones. Large highway maintenance projects generate dozens, if not hundreds, of engineering drawings and voluminous amounts of paperwork. Documents, including the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices, must be complied with.

A complete analysis of an accident in a traffic control zones requires not only an understanding of the scope and progression of the project but also the responsibilities and duties of each party involved.