During the summer months, construction zones can make traveling by car a hassle. Construction zones not only increase travel time as you have to slow down to get through them, but they can also create traffic jams in typically non-congested areas.
As inconvenient as it can be, traffic construction is necessary to keep the highways in proper condition. Although it can be frustrating to travel through construction zones, it is important to follow traffic laws as it protects other drivers as well as construction workers.
Distracted Driving Laws
Distracted driving laws vary from state to state, and when traveling through multiple states, it is important to know and understand the laws of the surrounding states.
One of the biggest culprits for distracted driving is cell phone use. In many states, the use of cell phones is illegal while driving. Even if a state does not prohibit cell phone use in normal areas, construction zones generally have additional restrictions on phone use to reduce the likelihood of distracted driving.
Construction Zone Tickets
There are several types of fines you can receive in construction zones, and the most common fine is a speeding ticket. With reduced speed limits for extended stretches of the highway, and some areas that are poorly marked, it becomes difficult for you to know where a construction zone begins or ends.
There are two main types of speed limit reductions in construction zones. The first is a reduction in the working zone of the actual speed limit, reinforced by photography. This is a newer development that has made its way into work zones as states have updated their laws to use speed cameras and radar guns to catch speeding motorists. This speed reduction applies to the entire area, even if workers are not present.
The second type of speed limit reduction is an established limit that applies only when workers are present. There are usually flashing lights or indicators on speed limit signs that indicate when workers are present, helping drivers know when to observe the speed limit. These limits could also be enforced by photography, but it is more common for a police officer to be there to make sure motorists are following the speed limit.
Handling a ticket
If you have received a fine in a work area, you will be given a more severe fine and punishment. You will also very likely have to appear in court and could receive a large fine for endangering motorists and workers.
Dealing with these types of fines can be very difficult and it is best to find someone who handles these situations on a regular basis. Find an attorney who knows and understands the specific traffic laws in your area and let him or her work on your behalf.