Since the deployment of new speed cameras in highway work zones this year, the Washington State Patrol has reported a staggering number of infractions.
As of last week, these cameras, which began operation in April, have recorded 7,599 speeding violations, with nearly an additional 4,000 infractions still being processed.
Despite the high number of infractions, very few have resulted in actual fines. Currently, only 262 of these infractions have yielded fines, as first-time violators are not penalized.
However, starting next July, this leniency will change, with the first violation resulting in a $125 fine and subsequent offenses carrying a hefty $248 penalty.
Washington’s roads are notoriously dangerous, with over 1,300 work zone crashes occurring annually.
Last year alone, seven lives were lost in work zone accidents, and another 38 resulted in serious injuries, with speeding being a contributing factor in roughly 20% of these incidents.
A recent study from the Associated General Contractors of America echoed these concerns, revealing that 64% of highway contractors experienced cars crashing into construction sites over the past year.
Julie Meredith, Secretary of Transportation, stated, “The first few months of the program confirm what statistics show and what our workers have been saying — too many people speed through work zones.”
In 2023, the state’s lawmakers unanimously approved the installation of these cameras as a response to growing concerns from the transportation department.
Initial estimates suggested that the implementation of these cameras could lead to over 250,000 infractions annually.
The recent transportation budget, approved in April, expects to generate $138 million from these fines over the next six years.
The funds generated will not only sustain the camera program but will also support DUI patrols and other safety initiatives.
Officials express that the primary goal of these cameras is to enhance safety for workers and encourage drivers to slow down.
State patrol Chief John Batiste emphasized that the initiative is focused on saving lives, stating, “This isn’t about writing tickets and fining motorists; this is about slowing inattentive drivers down and saving lives.”
The camera program is slated to run until 2030, unless the state legislature decides to extend it.
Currently, three cameras have been deployed across various work zones, including areas on Interstate 5 near Joint Base Lewis-McChord and state routes 16, 18, and 522, as well as Interstate 90 and U.S. 12.
Plans are in place to expand the program, with a total of up to 15 cameras expected to be operational by 2027.
Drivers are notified of the camera presence through warning signs, and the cameras are only active when workers are present.
Each recorded infraction is subject to review by state troopers before being sent to the registered vehicle owner.
It’s worth noting that the photos captured do not include images of the drivers themselves.
Vehicle owners are required to respond to the infraction notice either online or by mail.
They also have the option to contest the fine with the state Office of Administrative Hearings, request a reduction, or set up a payment plan.
Importantly, these infractions are classified as non-moving violations, meaning they do not affect driving records or insurance premiums.
This legislative session, lawmakers considered a bill proposing mandatory online courses on work zone and first responder safety for obtaining a driver’s license.
While the bill advanced nearly unanimously in the state House, it ultimately stalled in the Senate.
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