Navigating the roads in inclement weather presents unique challenges, but knowing the laws designed to enhance road safety is vital for protecting yourself and others. In particular, Ohio and Michigan have specific regulations that mandate drivers to turn on their headlights whenever their windshield wipers are in use due to precipitation. Let’s delve deeper into the importance of these laws and what they mean for you as a driver.

In Ohio, the law, outlined in Ohio Revised Code Section 4513.03, explicitly requires drivers to activate their headlights whenever their windshield wipers are on due to rain, snow, or other forms of precipitation. That requirement extends not only to the headlights but also to the taillights and rear license plate lights, ensuring comprehensive visibility.

Michigan has a regulation that requires drivers to turn on their headlights whenever their windshield wipers are in use, regardless of the time of day. The rule acknowledges that poor visibility, caused by rain, snow, or fog, can significantly impair a driver’s ability to see clearly and be seen by others.

The reasoning behind these laws is clear and compelling: safety. In low-visibility conditions, such as rain, snow, sleet, or fog, activating your headlights is crucial for making your vehicle more visible to others on the road. When your headlights are on, you not only illuminate your vehicle’s front but also your taillights, making you significantly more visible to drivers approaching from behind.

Headlight laws are not merely about improving your own visibility; they are about ensuring that everyone on the road can recognize your presence. Enhanced visibility is fundamental in preventing accidents and creating safer driving conditions for all.

Both Ohio and Michigan have enacted these laws to achieve a single, critical goal: ensuring road safety during adverse weather conditions. As conscientious drivers, it’s imperative to abide by these regulations—not just to avoid potential fines, but to foster a safer environment for every traveler.

So, the next time you find yourself driving in rain or snow, remember to switch on your headlights. That simple action can have a significant impact on your safety and the safety of others.

Road construction is a vital but often lengthy endeavor. While we usually take our roadways for granted, the extensive planning and labor that goes into creating and maintaining them can be surprising. In a way, it’s almost like trying to assemble IKEA furniture—there’s a lot of planning involved, some unexpected parts, and you’ll probably find yourself wondering how you got into this mess in the first place. Buckle up; it’s going to be a bumpy ride.

Comprehensive Planning and Design

Thorough planning and design are essential before any physical work can begin. This stage involves extensive coordination with various utilities and local authorities to ensure that all requirements are met. For example, one significant challenge is the relocation of underground utilities—everything from fiber optics to water pipes. These underground networks can be extensive, causing unexpected delays for adjustments to accommodate the planned road structure. In a way, this phase is like trying to organize a family road trip—everyone’s got their own agenda, and someone is inevitably going to need a last-minute bathroom break.

The site conditions play a crucial role in determining the timeline for construction. Factors such as the terrain and soil quality can significantly impact the preparation of the roadway foundation. Challenging terrains require additional engineering solutions to ensure the road doesn’t end up looking like a roller coaster ride. Proper groundwork is crucial to ensure safety and longevity, but it can be time-consuming.

Before paving can commence, several infrastructures need to be installed, such as drainage systems and electrical conduits. This preparation phase is critical in preventing future issues like flooding or electrical failures. But, of course, that extra step adds time to the already prolonged construction process. And just when you thought the delays couldn’t get any worse!

External Influences

Adverse weather conditions are a perpetual challenge in construction. Rain, snow, and extreme temperatures can halt work for safety reasons. And don’t even get us started on supply chain issues. Delays in acquiring essential materials can stall projects, leading to prolonged timelines.

Labor shortages further complicate matters; without enough skilled workers, not only does production slow, but costs may also increase. In a world that increasingly demands efficiency, skilled labor is more essential now than ever.

Phased Approach to Minimize Disruption

Projects typically take place in phases to manage the complexities of road construction while maintaining some semblance of traffic flow. A phased approach allows segments of the road to remain operational while other sections are under construction. While beneficial for reducing disruption, this method adds an extra layer of logistical coordination, extending the time required to complete the project fully. It can feel as if you’re playing a video game, navigating through suddenly appearing traffic cones and Detour signs that seem to multiply endlessly.

Regulatory Hurdles and Inspections

Navigating the regulatory environment is often one of the more complicated elements of road construction. Compliance with various regulations can slow down progress significantly. Inspections are a critical part of the process, ensuring that work is completed safely and meets established standards. While necessary for public safety, these inspections can contribute to delays in project timelines.

In conclusion, road construction is a multifaceted process influenced by a host of interrelated factors—from extensive planning and external obstacles to the delicate balance of maintaining community functionality. Understanding these challenges can foster greater appreciation for the hard work that goes into building and maintaining our roadways. So, next time you find yourself stuck in endless construction traffic, remember: it’s not just a road, it’s a labor of love (and a whole lot of paperwork!). While it may take time, the result is infrastructure that supports our communities for years to come. And let’s be honest, smooth roads are worth the wait.

As the job market evolves, the construction industry stands out as a critical sector poised for significant growth. With projected construction and extraction employment growth of 11 percent by 2026, as outlined by the United States Department of Labor, now is the perfect time for students to consider a career in the field. One program that is preparing the next generation of workers is the Mining, Asphalt, Concrete & Construction Technology (MACC Tech) program.

What is MACC Tech?

Designed for junior and senior high schoolers, the MACC Tech program equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in various construction-related fields. With the backing of trade organizations such as the Ohio Aggregates & Industrial Minerals Association (OAIMA), the innovative program recognizes the fundamental role that aggregates and industrial minerals play in construction and is committed to addressing the industry’s growing employment needs.

Graduates of the MACC Tech program receive a credential that prepares them for immediate employment in diverse career paths, including roles in mining, asphalt production, concrete technology, and construction management. The program provides hands-on experience and specialized training that enables students to step directly into high-demand, well-paying jobs. In Ohio alone, the construction and extraction industry employs over 185,300 people, with an average wage of $61,020—exceeding both the national average and median salary for all occupations.

The Importance of Aggregates

A remarkable aspect of the MACC Tech program is its emphasis on aggregates—essential materials like sand, gravel, and crushed stone that are the cornerstone of construction projects.

Aggregates are not just significant in quantity; they are critical to infrastructure, supporting everything from roads and highways to buildings and bridges. For instance, a mile of a typical four-lane interstate highway requires about 38,000 tons of aggregate base. By emphasizing the importance of aggregates, the MACC Tech program prepares students to understand the foundational elements of construction work.

Beyond personal career development, the MACC Tech program also aims to address broader economic needs. Preparing a skilled workforce directly supports the demands of the construction industry and contributes to the vitality of Ohio’s economy. The initiative reflects a commitment to sustainable practices, recognizing that aggregates and industrial minerals are indispensable to our daily lives—each Ohioan uses approximately 11 tons of these materials every year.

If you can’t grow it, you have to mine it.

That quote captures the essence of why pursuing a career in the construction sector is critical in our increasingly infrastructure-dependent world. Construction careers are diverse and rewarding, offering young adults the opportunity to make tangible contributions to the development of their communities and the economy.

Looking to the future, it’s clear that programs such as MACC Tech are essential in shaping a well-prepared, skilled labor force that can meet the challenges of tomorrow’s construction industry. For students eager to embark on a promising career path, the Mining, Asphalt, Concrete & Construction Technology program is an incredible opportunity to build a prosperous future.

If you or someone you know is a high school student interested in construction, consider taking part in the MACC Tech program. With the proper credentials and training, a fulfilling career in the construction industry awaits. Learn more here.

As the seasons change and nature comes alive, there’s no better time to explore the stunning landscapes that our national parks have to offer. Mark your calendars for April 19, 2025, when you can enter any national park for free as part of National Park Week. The annual celebration invites you to witness the beauty of these cherished places while remembering why they matter.

National parks are more than scenic vistas; they safeguard our ecosystems and preserve our cultural heritage. These natural treasures protect diverse habitats, provide sanctuary for wildlife, and absorb carbon dioxide, all of which are significant in combating climate change. By visiting the parks, you enjoy natural beauty and support conservation efforts.

National Park Week typically aligns with Earth Day, celebrated on April 22, making it the perfect opportunity to reflect on our planet and engage in activities that promote sustainability. From April 19 to April 27, the parks will open their doors to visitors, encouraging everyone to get outside, explore, and appreciate the environment.

Whether you’re hiking the trails of Acadia, marveling at the geysers of Yellowstone, or standing in awe at the cliffs of Zion, each park offers unique experiences and breathtaking views that will stay with you long after your visit. Families, friends, and nature enthusiasts alike can enjoy the shared experience of exploring these natural wonders.

This year, consider pledging to make the most of your visit by practicing Leave No Trace principles: leave the parks as beautiful as you found them. Pick up litter, respect wildlife, and ensure that your time in nature contributes to preserving it.

Get ready for National Park Week 2025, a chance to celebrate nature’s wonders while contributing to its longevity for future generations.

Learn more about National Park Week HERE.

It starts with the resume.

Hiring managers look at many resumes, so yours needs to make a positive first impression. A clean, professional layout is critical. Use a modern, readable font, utilize bullet points to list information, and leave plenty of white space to avoid a cluttered look.

Try to tailor your resume to address the precise skills and experience listed in each job posting. Incorporating specific language from the job description into your resume helps employers match your qualifications to their requirements. For instance, if the job calls for “2-3 years of truck driving experience,” make sure you explicitly address how you meet that requirement.

In addition, quantifying your qualifications can boost your resume’s effectiveness. Instead of simply stating you possess a commercial driver’s license, highlight that you “Hold a Class A CDL for manual transmission, a clean driving record, and a valid DOT physical.”

If your background does not include construction work experience, highlight any relevant skills that could apply to the job, such as certificates you earned in safety or specialized training you completed. Be sure to include the names of the organizations providing your certification and the dates received.

When listing your work history, prioritize relevant roles and experiences directly related to the job you’re seeking. Most people list work experience chronologically. But if you’ve changed career directions or had gaps in employment, a functional format highlighting notable experiences might work best for you.

If your background does not include construction work experience, highlight any relevant skills that could apply to the job, such as certificates you earned in safety or specialized training you completed. Be sure to include the names of the organizations providing your certification and the dates received.

While many construction jobs do not require college degrees, most expect a high school degree or an equivalent GED. Always list when and where you graduated from high school or earned your GED.

Focusing on the interview process.

Preparation is critical for interviews. Before an interview, research the company to learn its values, mission, and industry position. Visit the employer’s website and social media platforms and look for recent news about the organization. Doing your homework helps you demonstrate your interest in the job and the employer.

In the interview, be prepared to discuss your background, why you are interested in the job, and how your experience aligns with the company’s needs. Practice summarizing your work background clearly and concisely while highlighting milestones and showcasing your skills and achievements.

Interviewers often rely on behavioral-type questions to gauge how you might handle various workplace scenarios. Questions such as, “Tell me about a time when you…” require you to recite examples of how you reacted in prior situations. Again, practice can help you structure comprehensive responses emphasizing your expertise and problem-solving abilities.

Of course, the interviewer should not be the only person asking questions. Asking insightful questions helps engage the interviewer, creates a conversational atmosphere, and demonstrates your interest in the position. Questions about training opportunities and how the company measures success show an interviewer that you are considering a long-term future at the company.

Successfully navigating the job application process involves setting yourself apart from other candidates by tailoring your resume, quantifying your achievements, and preparing thoroughly for interviews. But remember, you are not the only one interested in success. Hiring managers are eager to find qualified candidates to fill their positions. Don’t be afraid to ask them for guidance on showcasing what you can offer.

When winter weather turns severe, drivers can face dangerous road conditions. AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety research indicates that adverse weather and hazardous roads factor into more than 2,000 road deaths annually.

AAA encourages drivers to follow directions from local authorities and, whenever possible, stay home during winter storms. Even after a storm passes, limiting road traffic can help emergency crews perform their jobs safely and efficiently. If you must travel, check the weather conditions for your route before hitting the road.

Should your car get stuck in deep snow and help is not visibly within walking distance, you could find yourself stranded for a while. The following precautions can keep you safe until conditions improve or emergency assistance arrives.

Stay in your vehicle.

Exposure to wind-driven snow and cold can quickly disorient you. Furthermore, getting lost or hit by another car while walking in a heavy snowstorm becomes a risk.

Your vehicle provides temporary shelter while making it easier for rescuers to locate you. Stay in your car and, if possible, call 911.

Don’t attempt to dig out from the snow.

Avoid overexerting or injuring yourself by struggling to free your car from the snow. However, clear any snow or ice from the exhaust pipe to keep deadly carbon monoxide from entering the vehicle when the engine is running.

Run the motor sparingly.

Run the engine and heater for about ten minutes each hour—just long enough to remove the chill and conserve gasoline. And while running the motor, crack open a window to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.

Stay visible to rescuers.

To signal distress, secure a red or other brightly colored cloth to the antenna or top of a rolled-up window. In the dark, turn on the dome light to make it easier for rescuers to see you—it only uses a small amount of electricity.

Once the snow stops falling, raising the hood alerts others that you need assistance.

Come prepared.

AAA recommends that all drivers keep an emergency kit in their vehicles, especially during the winter. A well-stocked emergency kit includes the following:

• A cell phone car charger
• A flashlight and extra batteries
• Reflective or warning triangles for displaying outside the vehicle
• A first-aid kit
• Bottled water and non-perishable food for travelers (and pets)
• Ice scraper or snow brush and shovel
• Gloves, extra warm clothing, hats, and blankets

For more winter driving tips, visit the AAA website.

Is “Are we there yet?” an all too familiar question on your family driving vacations? Are you hitting the road this summer but dreading the many hours of togetherness? Extended time in a vehicle causes boredom and fatigue, often leads to arguments, and can be a safety hazard. 

The road can be your friend if you embrace it and consider the trip an adventure and an opportunity to experience new things. If you are so focused on your destination, you may miss the chance to discover and share some interesting things along the route.  

Here are some tips to break up a long road trip and keep you and your fellow passengers alert and entertained, ensuring you arrive at your destination happy and safe, ready to enjoy family time together. In other words, make the journey an adventure and part of the vacation. 

Always Choose the Scenic Route.

Often, road signs offer an optional scenic drive. Take the extra few minutes to see what’s around the bend. Exploring the unknown and getting off the beaten path can be fun, and you might be surprised at what you find—a cascading waterfall, a beautiful shoreline, or a breathtaking view. Take the road less traveled; otherwise, you’ll never know what you missed.

Eat Local.

Stopping for meals or snacks is an excellent way to break up a long ride. Hunger can make you grumpy and restless. When selecting where to dine, take the time to look for a great local spot. You can always eat at a chain restaurant at home, so why not try something new? Check out something unique or a specialty in the area. A Philly cheesesteak, a Chicago hotdog, or “the world’s biggest ice cream cone.” The local folks know what’s best. How do you find a good place to stop? Google it, or simply look for the place where all the cars are. 

Avoid Peak Traffic Times.

Road trips can test everyone’s patience, so arrange your travel through large urban areas to avoid peak commuter traffic times of the day. A little extra planning can save lots of time sitting on the highway, conserve gas, and keep tempers in check.

Stop and Start.

This one may be obvious, but make frequent stops to get out to stretch and clear your heads. Too much togetherness is not always a good thing. Remember riding in a crowded backseat? That may be where the term sibling rivalry began. 

Go To Summer School.

School may be out for the summer, but it doesn’t mean vacations can’t be educational. Seek out sites of historical importance along the way, and bone up on your geography as you motor across the country. Expand your science knowledge while exploring caves and other natural wonders. Learning hands-on helps retain knowledge better than sitting in a classroom. 

Experience Stranger Things.

Remember as a kid passing road signs for the wild and wacky attractions where your dad or mom would never stop? Be the cool parent and take a few minutes to embrace the weird and wonderful world of kitsch. Check out the world’s largest dinosaur display, Corn Palace, or Carhenge. There are fun and wonderful surprises in every state. Your family will talk about these quirky displays for years to come. 

Celebrate at a Festival.

Many communities have seasonal or themed festivals that are fun for the whole family. Whether it’s a summer watermelon festival or a town’s anniversary celebration, you can be a part of it all. Research the areas you will be passing through to check schedules and find something that interests you. 

Make it a Picnic.

Explore a local farmer’s market and pick up some regional goodies as an alternative to restaurant dining. Have everyone participate in organizing the meal, then find a local park or scenic spot to chill out and make a picnic lunch. Sometimes, the simplest ideas are the best.

Watch Out for Road Crews.

Summer is road repair season. Crews work day and night, so please take extra caution when driving through marked construction zones. Accidents can be avoided by slowing down and paying attention. Don’t ruin your vacation or someone’s life by being distracted. Everyone wants to get home safely.

As you pack up and get ready to have some summer road fun, remember that life’s too short—make some memories that will last a lifetime.

Are you planning a road trip during the upcoming holidays? If so, you’ll be among the 104 million Americans driving at least 50 miles from home during the ten-day travel period beginning December 23. According to the AAA, that’s a 1.8 percent increase over last year and the second-highest number since before the pandemic.

Not surprisingly, transportation experts warn that driving durations could average up to 20 percent longer than previous year-end travel seasons. Mobility solutions provider INRIX predicts roadway congestion will be at its worst on Saturday, December 23, and Thursday, December 28, with drivers heading to and from holiday destinations. Saturday, December 30, will also see higher vehicle traffic than a typical Saturday.

There are some steps you can take to minimize holiday travel road delays.

• INRIX recommends avoiding peak commuting hours by traveling on roads before lunchtime and after 7:00 p.m.
• Use traffic apps and area Department of Transportation notifications to locate—and avoid—congestion.
• You can get up-to-the-minute road and weather information in many states by dialing 511. Calls get routed to the region in which the traveler is driving.

Above all, expect to have delays. Drive times in major metropolitan areas could take 50 percent longer than usual. Building extra time into your schedule helps prevent frustration and reduces the chances of accidents.

At The Gerken Companies, we’re all responsible for doing everything possible to maintain confidentiality, integrity, and data availability. That means being aware and cautious of what we receive via email. So, in honor of Cybersecurity Awareness Month, here are some simple tips for avoiding phishing scams and other email schemes.

Watch for and recognize common signs of email fraud.

• Urgent or emotionally appealing language, such as “Reply to this email ASAP” or “Please help those affected by the latest disaster.”
• Requests to send personal or financial information, including “Pay this invoice now” or “Sign up for a financial consultation.
• Unexpected attachments, invoices, or instructions
• Shortened URLs containing bit.ly or tiny in the address. While URLs shortened using Bitly.com and tinyURL.com are often legitimate, cybercriminals frequently use them to mask fraudulent URLs and redirect you to malicious sites. If you see a shortened URL you don’t trust, manually type it into your browser to see if it is a legitimate site rather than clicking it. Remember: typing a URL won’t launch malware, but clicking on a suspicious link might.
• Email addresses that don’t match the supposed sender or contain errors in the sender’s account name.
• Messages containing poor grammar, lack of punctuation, typos, and misspelled words.

Resist and report.

• Don’t click on any links or attachments, as doing so will often initiate the installation of malware.
• Don’t reply to the email if you suspect its authenticity. If you know the supposed sender, send the person a new email asking about the message you received, or call them at their known number.
• Forward a suspicious email to IT if you want us to verify its legitimacy. We are happy to look closely at the email contents and can often determine its validity without clicking links or attachments.
• Report the email using the “Report Message” button in Outlook.

Delete.

• Delete the message after reporting phishing attempts.
• Do not reply.
• Do not click links or attachments.
• NOTE: Please do not click “unsubscribe,” as that action will often contain malware that will begin installing when you click.

You can help do your part in our cybersecurity defense by thinking twice before opening attachments or clicking links and consistently reporting suspicious messages.

Autumn is a time for changing leaves, stunning colors, and crisp temperatures. Despite its majesty, fall weather can be unpredictable. Its seasonal changes can affect driving conditions and increase the risk of accidents. While many consider winter a hazardous time on roadways, the annual transition from summer to autumn can catch even the safest drivers off guard.

With that in mind, here are recommendations for staying safe while driving in the fall.

Prepare for later sunrises and earlier sunsets.

From now until the end of autumn, days will become increasingly shorter. As a result, the sun appears lower in the sky during morning and evening rush hours, and the resulting glare makes driving visually tricky.

Keeping your windshield clean and free of streaks and smudges can help combat the glare from a sunny horizon. And don’t get caught without sunglasses when driving in the fall.

Remember, the earlier dusk and dawn darkness can sneak up on you, making it suddenly challenging to see children playing outdoors, crossing streets, or walking to and from school bus stops. Slow down to give yourself more time to stop.

Beware the night.

Autumn brings the end of Daylight Savings Time and increased nighttime driving. And according to the National Safety Council, half of all traffic fatalities occur at night.

Driving at night is dangerous because darkness limits visibility and diminishes our depth perception, peripheral vision, and color distinction. What’s more, headlight glare from oncoming traffic can daze drivers. Those factors can impact your ability to react in unsafe situations.

Our bodies associate darkness with sleep, so it’s natural to feel drowsy driving during evening commutes—especially in the wake of Daylight Savings Time’s end. Make sure you are well rested and avoid driving when tired.

Slowing down can compensate for reduced visibility and shorter stopping times.

Watch out for fog.

Fog often accompanies cool morning temperatures, making it harder to see and be seen on the road. Slow down to adjust for reduced visibility while keeping plenty of distance between your car and other vehicles.

Turn on your headlights, even during daytime fog. However, resist the urge to use your high beams because dense fog can cause the higher-angled light to reflect at you and create unanticipated glare.

Use your vehicle’s windshield wipers and defroster to keep your glass moisture-free.

Be on the lookout for deer.

Autumn is deer breeding season, leading adult deer to wander looking for mates. As a result, accidents related to striking a deer are twice as common in mid-autumn than any other time of year.

Deer are most active at dawn and dusk and often travel in groups. Watch for movement along roadsides and anticipate one or more deer crossing your path. If you encounter a deer on the road, strive to brake rather than swerve to avoid contact with other traffic.

Stay alert for slippery conditions.

Fallen leaves can be dangerous on roadways by decreasing tire traction and inducing skidding. Wet or icy leaves create slippery conditions. And piles of leaves at curbs can hide edge lines or potholes.

As temperatures drop to freezing levels, roads become icy. Remember that bridges and highway overpasses freeze more quickly than other road surfaces. Unlike typical road surfaces exposed to air only from above, bridges and overpasses get exposed from underneath and on both sides.

Drivers traveling at normal speeds on clear roads can get caught off guard and lose control. And collisions happen much faster in slippery conditions.

Potential driving hazards, such as slippery roads, less daylight, fog, and sun glare, accompany the beginning of fall. Knowing how autumn conditions impact road safety can reduce your risk. And watching your driving speed can give you more time to react to possible dangers.