ORBA Calls for Safe Driving in Construction Zones

MISSISSAUGA, ON, May 13, 2015 /CNW/ - As we enter into our first long weekend of the summer, Ontario Road Builders' Association (ORBA) reminds all Ontarians to drive safely, especially when travelling through construction zones.

Posted construction zone speed limits advise drivers of the legal speed in which to travel through these sections of roads and highways. These posted speed limits are reduced to protect drivers and construction workers. Although the Ontario Highway Traffic Act allows for fines to double in construction zones when workers are present, motorists are asked to follow the posted speed limits at all times. ORBA thanks the Ontario Provincial Police for their efforts in patrolling construction zones. ORBA will continue advocating for safety cameras within construction and community safety zones.

"We know that distracted driving and excessive speed are two leading causes of serious injuries and fatalities on Ontario roads and highways. Unfortunately, all too often, these two factors are also to blame for serious injuries and deaths to drivers and workers within construction zones." states Geoff Wilkinson, Executive Director of ORBA. "We ask motorists to obey posted construction zone speed limits and help us save lives this construction season."

Since inception in 1927, ORBA has shared its expertise about road construction and safety issues. In addition to our work in promoting safe construction zones, ORBA also created the "Let us Lead the Way" (snowplowsafety.ca) campaign to help educate drivers about safe winter driving - especially around snow plows. ORBA is pleased to contribute to making Ontario's highways the safest in North America.

ORBA is the provincial voice of approximately 200 road building contractors and suppliers. ORBA members build and maintain Ontario's provincial highway system, municipal roads and bridges and other public transportation infrastructure projects, employing over 30,000 workers.

SOURCE Ontario Road Builders Association

Ashley De Souza, Director, Government Relations, ORBA, 905-507-1107, ext. 223, [email protected]