Joan Warner

The Warner Agency Newsletter -

As you know the Fifth Season in Michigan is the "CONSTRUCTION SEASON." Here are some helpful tips:

1) Plan ahead

• Check traffic/road closures before you leave (maps, MDOT alerts, local news).

• Leave earlier than usual and have a backup route in mind.

• Expect slowdowns even if your route looks “open.” Work zones can shift quickly.

2) Follow work-zone rules exactly

• Slow down where signs say to. The reduced speed limits are enforced for safety.

• Obey lane closure and detour signs—don’t “try to make it work” by guessing.

• Never pass stopped or merging traffic unless signage and road markings clearly allow it.

3) Give yourself more space

• Increase your following distance (at least 4–6 seconds) because braking may be more frequent.

• Watch for sudden lane changes from drivers trying to get into open lanes.

4) Merge early and smoothly

• When lanes close, use “zipper merging” where appropriate (merge at the last safe moment, alternating if traffic is present).

• Stay in your lane until you reach the merge point—don’t cut across solid lines or last-second swerve.

5) Be extra alert for hazards

• Construction vehicles, workers, and equipment may be entering/exiting unexpectedly.

• Watch for loose gravel, potholes, uneven pavement, and changing lane markings.

• Assume cones and barrels may move—stay within marked lanes when possible.

6) Reduce distractions

• Put your phone away, avoid changing playlists/navigation while driving, and don’t rely on last-second turns.

• Keep an eye out for bicyclists, pedestrians, and school zones that may be affected by construction detours.

7) Drive smoothly—avoid aggressive moves

• No tailgating, racing, or “passing to save time.”

• If traffic compresses, adjust gradually to prevent chain-reaction braking.

8) Use headlights as needed

• In rain, fog, dusk, or glare from wet pavement/vehicles, use headlights to improve visibility for others.

9) Expect brief but serious bottlenecks

• Construction often causes stop-and-go waves—try to keep a steady pace rather than braking hard repeatedly.

• If you see stopped traffic ahead, slow down earlier to avoid rear-end collisions.

10) Know what to do in emergencies

• If you’re unsure where to go, follow detour routes and don’t drive around barricades.

• If you must stop (flat tire, breakdown), move to a safe location if possible and use hazard lights—then call for help.

  Good Luck! Happy Driving!!