What is one potential outcome of poor flagging practices?

Poor flagging practices can lead to confusion for motorists, which significantly increases the risk of accidents and unsafe driving conditions. Effective flagging is crucial for providing clear and concise guidance to drivers, especially in work zones or areas where traffic patterns are altered. When flaggers do not follow standardized signaling procedures or fail to communicate effectively, drivers may become uncertain about which direction to take, the status of road conditions, or the presence of hazards. This confusion not only adds stress to motorists but can also lead to erratic driving behaviors, creating dangerous situations both for the drivers themselves and for construction workers or road crews present in the area. Thus, the outcome of poor flagging practices primarily reflects a breakdown in communication that negatively impacts road safety and overall traffic flow.