Welcome to “Bump” Season in Central Minnesota

Just as the seasons change and we move from warmer weather to fall, we’re also in a transition season of another kind in Central Minnesota.  

It’s BUMP SEASON! 

For some drivers around Central Minnesota, it’s almost as if the orange cones, barriers and signs have become accepted as part of the environment. What I’m trying to say is that some drivers have become so used to orange clad reminders of work being done on the roads that they forget what all this means. 

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We’ve been seeing more signs indicating we’re approaching a bump in the road around the area the last few weeks. These signs usually mean that project is nearing its completion. 

The bump comes into play where the roads that are intersecting are not smoothly or evenly matched up and we should cross the intersecting roads slowly. 

You may say to yourself, “Thank You Captain Obvious, we know what the bump signs mean”. But to that I would argue that many people don’t.  

Within the first few days of seeing the bump signs posted around the area, I was nearly hit two or three times from behind because the driver behind me either (a) didn’t see the sign for the bump (b) didn’t care about the message on the sign or (c) really has no real clue how to abide by the laws of the road, and they’re an accident waiting to happen. 

Honestly, I’m betting on a combination of (b) and (c).  

It seems that folks are just assuming that every other driver on the road plans on going from point a to point b at the highest speed possible without care or concern for other motorists. 

You may try to argue this is an overreaction, to which I would agree with you if were not for the fact I’ve seen other drivers nearly hit from behind by similar drivers to the ones who almost hit me. 

So, for everyone’s safety, please be mindful of the signs, cones and barriers that are out there, and understand that the cars in front of you might not be going at "ludicrous speed" (some of you will get the movie reference here) and expect them to proceed slowly.  

Another thing to keep in mind is that until the lanes are repaved, water line access points and manhole covers are possibly going to be sticking up in the roadway. I was reminded of this during my drive home yesterday afternoon. Watch out for them as you drive and be ready in case the vehicle you are following is caught off guard by one of these objects. 

Let’s be safe out there.