Drivers who break the law in construction zones may only be points away from a lost license.
A bill introduced by Rep. Jason Allen, R-Traverse City, cracks down on speed violations in traffic zones by increasing the number of points added to the offender’s driving record.
“The intent of the bill is to promote construction-zone safety by increasing the penalties for people who do not obey the speed limit laws,” Allen said. “We want to promote awareness and let people know that there are stiffer penalties for those who do not obey the law.”
The bill was placed on its third reading at the thursday session and will be reintroduced today.
“We don’t think it will meet any problems,” said Jamie Callahan spokesman for Allen.
“We’re hopeful that this is going to see some additional action.”
Callahan said this bill adds to the existing law which creates additional fines for speed violations in work zones.
“There are thousands of accidents that happen every year in construction zones,” Callahan said. “Rep. Allen feels that one way to put peace into the law is to increase the points - because that stays on your record a lot longer than the extra $100 bucks or whatever the fine would be.”
Allen said the bill is important for the safety of the workers.
“It is important for the families and the men and women who are on the road rebuilding our highways and state infrastructure,” Allen said.
Michigan Department of Transportation spokeswoman Janet Foran said many drivers do not realize their own safety is at risk in construction zones.
“What motorists don’t realize is that they’re more at risk than the construction worker,” Foran said. “More injuries happen to the drivers.”
But special education sophomore Anja Gettinger said the bill is too stringent.
“I think it might be going too far,” Gettinger said. “It is inconvenient, especially because construction is always such a pain - it’s at inconvenient times and lasts so long.”
Foran said the important thing to remember is the aspect of safety.
“This is serious business,” Foran said. “You have to remember that construction zones aren’t just orange barrels and flashing lights.
“They’re real workers who want to go home to their families every night, and drivers can help us by slowing down.”
