As Montana’s spring construction season ramps up, transportation officials are reminding drivers to keep three words in mind when navigating work zones: speed, space, and stress.

With road crews mobilizing across the state to complete much-needed infrastructure upgrades, the Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) is urging drivers to slow down, stay alert, and practice patience.

“People who are driving should always adhere to the posted speed limit signs and maintain focus on their surroundings when approaching a construction area,” said Jeremy Wilde, Statewide Work Zone Engineer for MDT, in a conversation with MTN News.

Work zones can often shift with little notice, making it especially important to allow extra space and time to respond to traffic flow changes. Wilde emphasized that distractions—particularly from mobile devices—are a leading cause of incidents in these areas.

“So give them a break, slow down, make sure you’re paying attention to what’s going on, and have a little patience when you’re going through,” Wilde said. “We all get a little bit excited sometimes when we get delayed, but just know that those workers are out there doing the best job they can to make a great product and a safe product in the end.”

The MDT's message arrives as part of a broader campaign to minimize accidents and protect both workers and travelers during peak construction months. The department says even minor inattention can have major consequences, and they're calling on drivers to make safe choices every time they hit the road.

In addition to slowing down and staying focused, Wilde said that giving crews physical space can reduce risks significantly—not just to workers, but to drivers themselves. Maintaining a safe following distance and avoiding sudden lane changes or aggressive maneuvers is key.

Montana has already begun roadwork projects across various regions, including repaving efforts, bridge repairs, and highway expansions. With more work zones on the way, transportation officials are doubling down on public outreach to reinforce the shared responsibility between drivers and crews.

Wilde concluded with a reminder that every road improvement is for the benefit of all Montanans, and a little patience now goes a long way: “Those workers are out there ensuring a safer, smoother ride for everyone in the future.”

For real-time road conditions and construction zone updates, drivers can visit mdt.mt.gov/travinfo or use the MDT mobile app.

Originally reported by Hannah Pedeferri in Montana News Leader.