Late summer means school zones are gearing back up, traffic gets heavier—and construction season is still in full swing. At Carter Express, we know that navigating these hot, busy roadways takes more than patience—it takes skill, awareness, and a strong commitment to safety.

Whether you’re running familiar routes or covering new ground, here’s how to protect yourself, your freight, and everyone else on the road through these final weeks of summer construction.

Stay Alert in Orange Zones

Construction areas change fast. What was open last week might be reduced to one lane today. Keep your eyes open for

• Sudden lane shifts
• Reduced speed limits
• Flaggers directing traffic
• Workers and equipment entering the roadway

Tip: Treat every cone as a signal to slow down and stay sharp.

Watch for Work Crews (and Fines)

Work zone violations aren’t just dangerous—they’re costly. Fines are often doubled, and citations can impact your driving record.

Do this instead

• Obey all posted signs and speed limits.
• Stay out of restricted lanes.
• Follow flagger instructions carefully.
• Keep your distance from workers and vehicles.

Don’t Let the Heat Sneak Up on You

Between the blacktop, the slow-moving traffic, and the long hours, heat stress can creep in fast—especially in stop-and-go construction backups

• Stay hydrated. Keep cold water in your cab.
• Use your A/C and fans wisely.
• Watch for signs of heat exhaustion: dizziness, fatigue, nausea.

Hot tip: Take breaks when needed, especially on longer hauls or in high-traffic areas.

Plan Ahead—Then Re-Plan

Construction zones can cause major detours or delays. Don’t let them catch you off guard:

• Check your route before you roll—use apps, CB chatter, or Carter’s dispatch updates.
• Add buffer time when planning delivery ETAs.
• Communicate if a delay looks likely—your team is here to support you.

Let’s finish construction season strong by keeping our heads cool, our brakes steady, and our focus on the road ahead.

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