After decades of planning, the interchange of Georgia 400 and I-285 is getting a complete makeover. Officials say the project will help to improve travel times and safety in the interchange area. While the construction would ultimately improve safety on the road for Atlantans, it also poses a challenge to drivers who have to take the I-285 in the meantime.
The Georgia Department of Transportation has set a few goals for a construction project that includes reducing traffic congestion, enhancing safety, reducing weaving maneuvers, and improving ramp geometry at the I-285/SR 400 interchange.
With these improvements, the long-term project presents a challenge to motorists who drive this interstate on a regular basis. Here are some things to consider while navigating the I-285 construction zone.
Know Traffic Advisories and Lane Closures
If you have a destination in mind, that you want to get to quickly, you should plan ahead. You could check real-time traffic conditions by calling 511 or visit the project’s web page. The interchange construction would take place at all hours of the day, which could produce delays and lane closures.
This week there are going to be two lane closures along I-285, which will take place from 8pm to 6am, until Thursday, Nov. 10, according to the Sandy Springs Patch. These closures may put you in a tight spot, so you should search for an alternative route that will get you to your destination or allow yourself additional travel time when leaving for your destination.
Watch Out for Construction Workers
There are some key things you can do to avoid accidents and keep construction workers safe.
You should obey road crew flaggers, and remain vigilant when driving in a construction zone, according to the GDOT. Construction workers may have to step directly in front of traffic to do work or change traffic directions, which may be difficult for you to anticipate or see them especially at night.
It is also important that you pay close attention to speed limit signs and obey them even when workers are not present. In Georgia, failure to obey speed limit signs can result in a hefty fine from $100 to $2,000 and/or up to 12 months in jail, according to GDOT.
You could also make sure not to tailgate when driving through a construction work zone. You should keep a safe distance between you and the car in front of you and the construction workers and their equipment.
Get Rid of Distractions
If you are stuck in traffic, you may decide to check your phone, which could lead to a rear-end collision. The GDOT has found that rear-end crashes accounted for 30 percent of work zone crashes.
However, it is not just your phone that can distract you and lead to an accident. You should avoid changing radio stations, playing with your vehicle’s temperature systems, grooming, or eating food while driving, according to the GDOT.
If you must use your cell phone, it may be best to wait until you are completely out of the work zone area before pulling over to use it. You do not want to rear-end another driver or risk hitting construction workers.
By following the advice above, you could decrease the likelihood of being injured in a car accident, while navigating a construction zone.
However, an accident can still occur even when you are doing everything right. If you are injured in a car accident that was the fault of another, you may be entitled to compensation. Read more to learn what our car accident attorneys in Atlanta can do for you. If you are ready to file a claim, fill out our free, no-risk case evaluation form today.
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