A new tool to stop speeding in work zones on the turnpike went into effect Wednesday.
The new Pennsylvania work zone speed enforcement program will start using cameras to fine drivers speeding in work zones.
Wednesday marks the end of the 60-day pre-enforcement period of the new automated speed enforcement program, so now if you’re caught speeding in a work zone, you could be facing a fine.
PennDOT and turnpike officials say it is all about the safety of motorists and workers.
"The cameras will take photos of license plates of any vehicle exceeding the work zone speed limit of 11 or more mph when workers are present in the work zone," said PennDOT Secretary Leslie Richards.
Drivers caught speeding in the work zone will now face repercussions.
Officials say first-time offenders will receive a warning letter, second-time offenders will receive a violation letter and a $75 fine, and any other offenses after that will result in a violation notice and $150 fine.
The cameras will be placed on a vehicle that will be parked inside the work zone. They will be used to document the speed of drivers in the area to hopefully slow them down.
"These are migratory cameras they can be behind a barrier, behind cones but we now finally have the opportunity to provide workers with more protection than just a hard hat and a safety vest with reflective tape," said PA Turnpike CEO Mark Compton.
Now PennDOT and turnpike officials are warning drivers the next fine issued could be yours, but it won't come without a warning.
"These things are coming to a work zone near you. There will be signage that warns you as you are approaching, but please understand these can be in any type of pattern on our system on the turnpike or the DOT," said Compton.
The goal of the speed enforcement system is to make drivers more aware of their surroundings because officials say last year, there was over 1,800 work zone crashes resulting in 23 deaths.
"Through the Automated Work Zone Speed Enforcement program, we are urging motorists to slow down and pay attention while driving, especially through work zones, where roadway conditions can change daily," said acting PennDOT Secretary Yassmin Gramian. "In 2018, 23 motorists were killed in a Pennsylvania work zone. Ultimately, this program is not about issuing violations, it's about saving lives."
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