What Happens When a Semi Smashes Into a MnDOT Vehicle in Minnesota
It recently happened along I-90 in Minnesota, when a semi smashed right into a Minnesota Department of Transportation vehicle.
The damage is intense. Looking at the photos, it's tough to believe that both drivers in this recent crash suffered only minor injuries. The result could have been much worse, as MnDOT noted in a recent post on their Facebook and Instagram pages.
The crash happened recently along I-90 here in Minnesota (though MnDOT didn't say specifically WHERE on I-90), when a semi-truck crashed into the back of a MnDOT maintenance vehicle on the right shoulder of the interstate. Luckily, as MnDOT noted, the maintenance vehicle was equipped with an attenuator mounted on the back of the truck, which helped to reduce the force of the impact.
The driver of the semi was cited for rear-ending the MnDOT vehicle, and both drivers suffered only minor injuries in the crash. But it points out again how important it is to pay attention when you're behind the wheel-- anytime-- but especially in a construction zone.
And seeing as there are a LOT of road construction zones on various highways here in Rochester and southeast Minnesota this year, it's not a bad idea to review MnDOT's other road construction driving tips. Did you know drivers traveling too fast and not paying attention are the main causes of work zone crashes? Follow these MnDOT safe driving tips:
- Obey posted speed limits. The fine for speeding in a work zone is $300.
- Drive undistracted. Cell phones, mobile devices, adjusting the radio – even eating – should be avoided in work zones.
- Stay alert, especially at night.
- Be patient. Expect delays, especially during peak travel times.
- Expect work zones to constantly change. Day to day you could experience lane shifts, closures or moving workers and vehicles.
- Don’t make unnecessary lane changes.
- Do the zipper merge.
- Never enter a road blocked with barriers or cones.
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