WAs new work zone speed cameras cite 7K drivers in first 90 days

Washington's new speed cameras in work zones have issued 7,599 infractions in their first 90 days, with only 262 resulting in fines. Currently, first-time violators do not face penalties, but starting next July, they will incur a $125 fine for their first offense, escalating to $248 for subsequent violations. The Washington State Department of Transportation reports over 1,300 work zone crashes annually, underscoring the critical need for safety measures. Last year, seven fatalities occurred in work zones, with speeding contributing to about 20% of those incidents. Secretary of Transportation Julie Meredith remarked on the alarming trend of speeding through construction zones.

The state anticipates that the new cameras will deter speeding, ultimately protecting workers and reducing accidents. Lawmakers approved the camera program in 2023, expecting it to generate $138 million in fines over the next six years to fund safety programs. The initiative is set to run until 2030, pending legislative approval for extension.