Are Work Zone Speed Limits Enforced When No Workers are Present? Here’s what Maryland law says

Work zones are necessary for road maintenance but can be inconvenient for drivers. Despite warning signs alerting drivers to changing conditions, many ignore them. Speed limits in work zones protect both drivers and road workers. In Maryland, speed cameras in construction zones catch drivers exceeding the speed limit, regardless of whether workers are present.

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Speed Cameras in Work Zones

• Speed cameras operate 24/7 in designated work zones.
• Drivers can receive tickets in the mail for speeding, even if no workers are present.
• These tickets carry a $80 fine but do not result in points against the driver's license.
• Citations are issued to those driving 12 or more miles per hour over the posted limit.

Impact of Speed Cameras

• Speed cameras have increased drivers' awareness of their speed in work zones.
• According to the Maryland Department of Transportation, work zone fatalities decreased from 11.9 per year (2003-2009) to 6.6 per year (2010-2016).
• AAA Mid-Atlantic reports that cameras have reduced crashes and fines in work zones.
• Revenue from tickets has declined by 44.5% as drivers have become more compliant.
• The number of cars speeding in work zones has dropped by 90%.

Excessive Speeding Law

• Excessive speeding is defined as driving 15 mph or more above the speed limit.
• This violation can result in points on the driver's license and potentially a suspended license.
• Hefty fines are imposed for excessive speeding, especially on highways.
• Admitting to speeding by paying the fine can lead to higher insurance rates and further penalties.

Enforcing speed limits in work zones, even when empty, has proven to enhance safety. Speed cameras have effectively reduced speeding and related fatalities. While fines can be inconvenient, they promote safer driving behaviors and protect all road users. For those facing citations, legal assistance can help maintain a clean driving record.