People in Cape Breton are calling on the Department of Transportation to improve lighting and road markings on a dangerous stretch of highway in Sydney.

A section of Highway 125, the Sydney bypass, is under construction for twinning. But some say the flashing lights, signs, and crossing highway lines in the construction zone have the potential to cause a serious accident.

"It's terribly dangerous," said Dolores Kennedy. "Totally confusing, much too dark, can't see where I am going. I always think I'm going to have an accident up there, so I stay off it."

During the day, the construction zone is relatively easy to see. But a night, poor lighting combined with vehicles exiting and merging onto the highway — trying to negotiate around concrete pillars with flashing lights next to oncoming traffic — is a hazard.

Sgt. Henry Poswiata reminds drivers it's important to slow down in construction zones.

"They have to pay attention to their driving. They also have to ensure that there's plenty of room between them and the next vehicle. So if you are allowing yourself three vehicle lengths, give yourself five or six," advises Poswiata.

Sarah Barrett, who drives Highway 125 daily, said people need to drive with caution.

"I am definitely aware that I am carrying two precious ones and I do slow down and take my time and hope the other drivers do as well," she said.

Driver Alan Campbell said the Department of Transportation needs to do something to make the highway safer.

"Light it up more. I find if they can get more lights there — it's just a lot of obstacles there," said Campbell.

A transportation department spokesperson told CBC they will replace and paint new lines on the highway, as well as clean up and reposition reflector signs to make them more visible. But said there are no plans to put extra lights along the highway.

The twinning project is expected to be finished by 2015.