DENVER -- No matter how smoothly the T-REX construction to widen I-25 and add light rail proceeds, drivers in and around the Denver area are anticipating years of frustration over delays and traffic jams.

But, unlike the dinosaurs, drivers must learn to co-exist with the cranes and orange cones, if they are going to survive, officials said.

Drivers here need to be aware of the potential dangers. In 1999, more people were killed on highway work areas than in any previous year. About 868 people died and more than 40,000 were injured in construction zone accidents -- up 26 percent from 1997.

In fact, highway project funding has increased by more than 40 percent and traffic congestion is up more than 50 percent. Drivers, passengers and workers behind the construction cones are at risk.

Many of these deaths and injuries can be avoided. Speeding and other forms of aggressive driving are among the greatest contributors to highway work zone accidents. As T-REX gets underway in the coming weeks, the Rocky Mountain Insurance Information Association offers these common sense tips to drivers steering through construction traffic.

• Stay alert and give full attention to the roadway
• Pay close attention to signs and work zone flaggers
• Turn on headlights so workers and other drivers can see your vehicle
• Do not tailgate
• Do not speed. Slow down to the posted speed limits
• Keep up with the traffic flow
• Do not change lanes in work zones
• Minimize distractions in vehicles. Avoid changing radio stations and using cell phones
• Expect the unexpected. Keep an eye on workers and their equipment
• Be patient. Remember work zones are necessary to improve roads and make them safer.