Indiana launches pilot program to monitor and fine drivers who speed in construction zones

The Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) will launch a pilot program in August to crack down on dangerous driving in construction zones.

The five-year Indiana Safe Zones pilot program will officially launch on August 14 in the current I-70 construction zone in Hancock County between mile markers 95 and 105, with plans to launch in an additional three locations in the future.

Officials will deploy camera systems to monitor the speed of vehicles passing through the work zone. If a vehicle is determined to be traveling 11 m.p.h. or more above the posted speed limit, cameras will capture an image of the rear license plates. After the images are verified, citations will be issued to the vehicle owner by mail.

Drivers speeding through the construction zone will not be cited if workers are not present.

There will be a pre-enforcement period of at least 30 days during which drivers will receive courtesy notices but not fines. After this period ends, the first violation will result in a zero-fine warning, the second in a $75 civil penalty, and every violation thereafter a penalty of $150.

“The goal of the Safe Zones program is to slow drivers down, reduce crashes, and most importantly, save lives,” said INDOT Commissioner Mike Smith. “Speed continues to be a factor in work zone crashes and changing driver behavior is crucial to making work zones safer for drivers and road workers. For everyone’s safety, I urge drivers to wear their seat belts, avoid distractions and follow the posted speed limit.”

According to INDOT, 269 people have been killed in crashes in highway worksites or in worksite backups in Indiana over the past 10 years.