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New laws now in effect relating to motorists in work zones
By Colette Lefebvre
Nevada Daily Mail
Beginning Monday, Aug. 28, a new highway work zone law went into effect, with higher consequences for motorists who endanger the lives of those who are working in a work zone.
There are currently more than 1,000 work zones in Missouri and so far there have been two highway workers killed.
MoDOT management director Don Hillis stated in a press release that, "These recent tragedies remind us of the critical importance of work zone safety. This new law will make work zones safer for motorists and highway workers."
Vernon County Sheriff Ron Peckman said, "People don't really pay attention, they have something else on their minds, and a work zone is a dangerous place."
The new law means stricter consequences for motorists who are driving recklessly.
The law includes a fine for killing or injuring a highway worker of up to $10,000 and loss of their license for a year. It also creates two new crimes -- endangerment of a highway worker and aggravated endangerment of a highway worker. It sets a $75 dollar fine for any person convicted of a second or subsequent moving violation within a work zone; any person convicted of a second or subsequent speeding or passing violation in a work zone will get a $300 dollar fine.
The law also changes the definition of what a highway worker is, to also cover suppliers and delivery personnel.
Work zones are not the only areas where motorists are going to have to be more aware, accident scenes are also areas where drivers need to become less automated and more animated.
Peckman said that in Vernon County, when there is an accident, the Sheriff's department sets up an accident scene with one or two extra individuals present so that they "can watch for vehicles." said Peckman.
Peckman also explained that there are various reasons for accidents or injuries to highway workers or public safety personnel along the highways .
"Maybe (the drivers) are sleepy. Or sometimes, at the scene of an accident when they are being waived through, they stop, and that causes a chain reaction. That is why we always keep someone around to watch our backs," explained Peckman, adding that, "These new laws won't change response time. We will still arrive as fast as we can and take care of the problem," said Peckman.
The new law will also incorporate a provision that requires work zone signs to remain uncovered, so now all informational signs will always remain unveiled in a work zone.
New signs will appear at work zone sites beginning Aug. 28, warning motorists of the consequences of reckless driving.
"We urge Missouri motorists to drive smart by buckling up, slowing down, staying alert, obeying signs and never drinking and driving in work zones to Arrive Alive." said Hillis.
Peckman advises motorists to "pay attention to what's going on all around you and not just what's right in front of you."
To find out where work zones are in the area or other work zone information, call (888)ASK-MDOT or visit the Web site at www.modot.org.