Travel Easy - Safety first... some tips for easy travel

For easier and safer travel, nothing beats planning in advance. And when you enter a work zone, it's important to obey the sign - merge, slow down and be careful. These are bottom-line necessities for safe and easy travel on any road.

These strategies will help you get through work zones with minimum stress.

• Know where the work zones are located and allow extra times to get through them.
• Avoid peak travel hours - between noon and 8 p.m. Fridays and Sundays. Expect delays.
• Watch for special instructions and advisories on electronic message boards as you approach major work zones.
• Slow down and merge cautiously and early.
• Pay attention. Be prepared for surprise slow-downs and speed-ups.
• Leave braking room between you and the car in front of you - approximately one car length for every 10 mph.
• Be calm. Work zones aren't meant to personally inconvenience you. Everyone's safety is dependent on your cooperation.

Remember, Wisconsin enforces these important laws:

• Buckle up for safety.
• If you are arrested for drunk driving, you will lose your license on the spot.
• Fines double in work zones.
• If you see law enforcement, towing, or road maintenance vehicles on the side of the road with their emergency lights on, change lanes or slow down.
• Stay back at least 200 feet when following maintenance vehicles.