Tips to Better Prepare for Safe Travel

Now that the weather is warmer, Hoosiers should expect an increase in road construction across the state.

As a result of these construction projects, motorists could experience backups, delays and reduced speed limits during their travel, which is why the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) offers several resources to keep Hoosiers and visitors informed and safe.

Indiana Trafficwise is INDOT's official statewide traffic and travel website that provides updated traffic information for interstates, U.S. routes and highways in Indiana. Users have access to view road conditions, travel delays, weather, construction, accidents and more. To visit the Trafficwise website or download the mobile app, click here.

INDOT also provides an up-to-date map of road construction throughout the state, which can show active and future projects and define each project by the type of roadwork such as bridge, safety, local or road. To view the NextLevel Roads map, click here.

With an increase in road construction, it is critical to remember the importance of work zone safety. INDOT works hard to keep travelers and construction workers safe in work zone areas where statistics show a greater risk of injury or death.

INDOT has provided several safety tips drivers should follow while traveling through work zones.

• Research the route before beginning a trip to help avoid work zones and identify possible detours.
• Be aware of work zone signage, which is typically placed a few miles before the work zone and makes drivers aware of things like lane closers or reduced speeds.
• Slow down while driving through work zones to prepare for changes in traffic patterns, and keep a close eye out for construction workers.
• Keep your distance between you and the cars around you. Rear-end crashes are extremely common in work zones due to several speed changes or changing traffic patterns.

Transportation is key to Indiana's economic success as Hoosiers and visitors rely on our roads and bridges every day. Construction is critical in maintaining safe roadways, which is why travelers should always stay informed and aware.