From my experience, some western states, for reasons unknown to me, have taken shortcuts with highway construction safety. I remember going through Wyoming on Interstate 80 a few years ago in areas of opposing traffic. They typically repair long stretches of interstate at one time requiring opposing traffic in one lane for up to 12 miles. During the time I'm referring to, Wyoming had opposing traffic flowing at 75 mph speed limits with only orange traffic barrels (see photo above) separating the westbound from the eastbound. This was a scary experience for me that I remember vividly. One mistake from someone can lead to instant death.
That one little mistake that leads to instant death, just happened in Idaho. You can read about it here. In short, it was a construction zone like the one pictured above with no concrete barrier between travel lanes. One truck driver crossed the center line for no apparent reason and struck an oncoming truck head-on in a fiery crash. The driver of the truck that was struck died on the scene and the other driver was air-evacuated from the scene with serious injuries.
The Jersey Barrier, which was developed in New Jersey in the 1950s is a modular concrete wall that is employed to separate lanes of traffic. I'm sure these walls have saved countless lives, but they are expensive to move. Additionally, consider the time involved in setting them up for 12 miles and it's easier to understand why some states don't use them. They take a "close one eye and go with it" approach and hope for the best.
If you ever find yourself in these construction zones, please be especially careful and try these tips to help ensure your safety.
- Stay to the far right of your lane to give extra space.
- Always use two hands on the wheel.
- Keep your eyes on the road, don't look at the opposing traffic.
- Don't follow vehicles too closely.
- No radio or cb usage through the construction zone.