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Anyone else notice that there seems to be a growing number of construction projects on local highways? Whether you live in Northwest Arkansas, Little Rock, or Tulsa, you’re probably finding yourself sitting in a lot of construction zones during your commute.
We at On Time Logistics have offices in those three metro areas so we know first-hand how frustrating it is to be delayed by construction. We also know that idling in traffic wastes gas and that wastes money. The wait also wastes time and that too costs money, at least in the business world.
There will always be times when you get stuck in traffic but we wanted to offer a few tips for reducing the probability.
Keep informed ahead of time
A growing number of websites and news agencies publish a weekly list of planned construction zones for the week. It’s wise to check these out before the work week starts and plan accordingly.
Use technology to help
There’s two ways to do this. First, check highway department websites for information. If you’re traveling in Arkansas, check the iDriveArkansas.com website. You can choose different options and determine which major highways in the state are affected by weather or construction. If you’re traveling in Oklahoma, you should check out the Oklahoma Department of Transportation website. They have information about construction and weather conditions in their tabs section. Keep in mind that both of these sites only monitor major highways and not city streets (or secondary highways).
The second way to use technology to make your commute better is to use an app on your smartphone. Note: Do NOT engage with these apps while operating your car. Determine your settings before starting your car so that the app works while you’re driving, making it safe and legal. This site offers 10 suggestions or apps that monitor construction zones.
Learn alternate routes
Some of apps offer suggested alternate routes but it’s always best to learn your own. Even if you have to drive out of your way it can take less time than sitting in a construction zone.
What other tips do you have for avoiding traffic tie-ups? Share in the comments? And if you’re in traffic a lot to run errands, give us a call—we can help.