Traffic Laws in Construction Zones
In order to prepare for the increase in motorized traffic during the summer months, the state of Missouri has already begun increasing levels of highway construction and maintenance work.
There are several important traffic laws to reiterate to drivers to keep everyone safe during this construction season.
Make the fusion move faster
Merging traffic lanes on a freeway or interstate can be very frustrating for drivers, especially during rush hour and in heavy traffic areas. The best way to merge when the roads are not busy is to merge into the open lane as soon as the warning signs begin to appear. However, in heavily congested traffic areas, it is much more efficient to zipper at the destination of the junction area to reduce traffic buildup.
Endangering a highway worker
The Highway Work Zones Act was put in place to regulate the crime of endangering a highway worker. If any person creates a violation that endangers a highway worker, but does not injure or take the life of the worker, a maximum fine of $1,000 and four points will be added to the driver’s license.
If the highway worker is injured, the violator will be fined up to $5,000 and 12 points will be applied to their license. However, if the violator takes the life of the highway worker, the violator will be fined a maximum of $10,000 and 12 points will be assigned to the violator’s license.
Fines and penalties
The Highway Work Zone Act also increased penalties for several of the most common violations to help protect highway workers. The law states that a person who is convicted more than once of a traffic violation will be subject to a $75 fine.
Additionally, the law provides that a $300 fine may be imposed on anyone with multiple counts of speeding or passing another vehicle in any work zone with a worker present (http://www.modot.org/workzones/ ).
The “Move” law of 2012
In 2012, Missouri implemented a law that requires motorists to slow down or move into the other lane when encountering any type of parked Missouri Department of Transportation, police or emergency vehicle.
This law helps protect both workers in parked vehicles and people passing by, since it significantly decreases the risk of an accident occurring.
Following these traffic laws and making sure to pay attention in work zones can help make the roadways safer for everyone this construction season.