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Work-zone speeders face stiffer penalties
Speeding through roadway work zones has always been dangerous, but now it can be expensive. In July a new state law went into effect that doubles speeding fines in work zones where workers are present.
First-time offenders face a fine of up to $250. The maximum fine will be doubled for second, third and subsequent offenses.
The law applies to all state-maintained roadways, including highways and county roads.
Under the old law, speeders were fined up to $25 per violation, and only on state highways.
New road signs identify work zones and warn motorists of the doubled fines.
We think the new law is a good idea. It should remind motorists to take work zone traffic safety more seriously, which will help protect not only themselves and road workers but utility crews as well. Electric power association crews frequently have to work along roadsides when building or maintaining power lines. They mark their work zones with warning cones and signs, and most motorists pass cautiously and courteously.
Crews strive to keep work zones as safe as possible, but drivers share in the responsibility. Most work-zone accidents are due to speeding and inattentive driving, according to the Mississippi Department of Transportation. Drivers get hurt when they get impatient, fail to heed posted speed limits or pay more attention to their cell phones than the car ahead of them.
Highway work zones can be frustrating for motorists because of the delays they cause. But before you get miffed the next time orange barrels loom ahead, consider this: It only takes an additional 52 seconds to travel through a two-mile-long work zone at 45 mph rather than 65 mph, according to MDOT. What driver is willing to risk lives to save 52 seconds?
Here are more tips for safe driving in work zones:
• Be alert to daily (and even hourly) changes in lane closures and traffic stoppages.
• When you see a lane-closure sign ahead, merge as soon as possible into the open lane. Waiting until the last minute can cause bottlenecks—and tempers to flare. Allow room for vehicles in closed lanes to merge into your lane.
• Be aware that traffic may be stopped temporarily to allow trucks or road equipment to enter the road.
• Road and utility crews also work at night, when visibility can be difficult due to the glare of oncoming headlights. Again, slow down and proceed with caution. We all have time to stay safe.
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