New temporary, portable rumble strips are now showing up at entrances to work zones across the nine county Paris District.  These rumble strips, along with warning signs, will be in place to alert motorists to slow down and watch for construction workers.

Please do not try to avoid the strips by moving into the oncoming traffic lane or onto the shoulder, also do not come to a sudden stop at the strips causing vehicles behind you to brake abruptly.  The rumble strips will not harm vehicles; they are in place for the driver and construction crews’ safety.  When driven over, the strips provide a secession of bumps, alerting drivers they will soon be entering an upcoming work zone.  The rumble strips are not hazardous debris in the road and should not be avoided. 

At 11 feet long, the rumble strip traverses an entire lane.  The strips are 12” wide and almost an inch thick; this generates a significant audible and vibratory alert to get the drivers attention.  The beveled edge, which faces traffic, makes the rumble strips motorcycle-friendly.  These temporary, portable rumble strips improves work zone safety and is the latest innovation in work zone safety devises. 

For your safety and the safety of our road construction crews, please keep the following tips in mind when driving through work zones:

*Observe work zone warning signs.

*Keep a safe distance between your vehicle, other vehicles, barriers, workers and equipment.

*Pay attention to flaggers directing traffic.

*Merge at the first notice of a lane closure or change.

*Avoid distractions. Don’t use your cell phone, drink, eat or change radio stations or CDs.