Washington State Speeding in a Construction or Emergency Zone

In Washington State, the penalties for speeding are increased if it occurred in a construction zone. Because of the risk of injury or death to the construction crew working on a busy roadway, the laws against speeding in a construction or work zone are taken quite seriously and the penalties for violating this law may include fines and increased insurance costs. If you have recently been issued a ticket for speeding in a construction zone, you should speak with an experienced traffic defense attorney.

In Washington, a construction zone is defined as a location where construction, maintenance, or repair work is being performed by public employees or private contractors, on or next to a public roadway. It may also include an area where workers are not currently present, but driving conditions would make it unsafe to travel at higher speeds. If a person drives at a speed greater than that indicated on signs or traffic control devices, he or she may be charged with speeding in a construction zone, which can lead to a fine twice more than the amount of a normal speeding ticket. This penalty cannot be waived, suspended, or reduced.

If a person drives in a manner that endangers or is likely to endanger a construction zone worker, he or she may be charged with reckless endangerment, which is a gross misdemeanor. The penalty may include jail time, fines and a license suspension of 60 days if convicted.

Beginning in January of 2011, it is also a crime to drive in a manner that endangers or is likely to endanger any emergency zone worker or property.  An emergency zone is the portion of the roadway that is 200 feet before or after any vehicles providing emergency assistance, including police vehicles that are displaying flashing lights or an audible signal.  This is also a gross misdemeanor, punishable with jail, a fine and license suspension of 60 days if convicted.

If you are found guilty of speeding in a construction zone, your insurance premiums could increase once your insurance provider sees your driving record.

It is possible to fight each of these charges, but you have the best chance of winning with experienced and knowledgeable defense counsel on your side. We know how much you have at stake and we will bring our talent, skill and trusted reputation to your defense. 

To learn more about how Callahan Law can help you fight your Washington State speeding in a construction zone ticket, reckless endangerment involving construction zone worker or emergency zone worker, contact us today.