Starting May 5, Indianapolis drivers should prepare for the rollout of INDOT's Safe Zones program, targeting excessive speeds in construction zones. The initiative is a response to the harrowing statistic that, in the past decade, 269 lives have been lost in Indiana work zone crashes—a signal that it's time for serious measures for safety.
In a move approved by the Indiana General Assembly in 2023, the Safe Zones program will utilize automated systems to enforce speed limits in construction areas, WISH-TV reports. A sober reminder from INDOT Commissioner Lyndsay Quist states, "It’s crucial for drivers to slow down in work zones," emphasizing the risk to workers, drivers, and passengers. The program, which follows after states like Maryland and Pennsylvania have seen significant declines in speeding violations, aims to do the same for Indiana.
The enforcement's first location will be the Clear Path I-465/I-69 construction zone on Indy's northeast side. According to WTHR, drivers going 11 mph or more above the posted limit will receive a fine. Offenses start with a zero-fine warning, followed by a $75 ticket and, for further infractions, $150 tickets.
INDOT's measure uses truck-mounted devices to monitor speeds and photograph the plates of violators. In an attempt to increase compliance and safety, the system will only issue a ticket when workers are present. "We want to keep drivers safe on the road, the same as we want to keep road crews safe in work zones," mentioned Matt Ubelhor, secretary of transportation and infrastructure. Fines collected from these penalties will contribute to Indiana’s general fund, as relayed by WRTV.
INDOT has begun sending out "courtesy notices" during a pre-enforcement warning period. Beginning next month, drivers who exceed speed limits in active work zones may receive fines by mail. The initiative is part of efforts to improve safety in construction areas ahead of full enforcement.
