WASHINGTON — In the last 90 days, the Washington State Patrol (WSP) has issued 7,599 infractions for drivers caught speeding on camera in work zones across the state. An additional 3,968 infractions are still being processed.
Washington currently has three cameras that are moved between various work zones, including along I-5, I-90, SR-522, SR-16, SR-18 and US-12.
The program was launched earlier this year in an effort to crack down on crashes in Washington’s construction zones. Since 2020, there have been an average of 1,345 crashes in Washington highway work zones each year.
For the first infraction during the year-long camera pilot, violators will not have to pay. Your second infraction, and any subsequent infractions, will be $248 each time.
According to WSP, 262 of the 7,599 infractions were second-offense infractions, so the drivers were required to pay.
Starting next July, fines for first infractions will be $125.
“While the number of infractions has been high during the first 90 days of operation, we hope to see a reduction of speeding through work zones as the word gets out about this new safety tool,” said WSP Chief John Batiste. “This isn’t about writing tickets and fining motorists; this is about slowing inattentive drivers down and saving lives.”
Cameras only issue an infraction when workers are present, but WSP says that could be anytime day or night, so approach a work zone as if there are crews there.
Drivers are also warned about the cameras when approaching work zones that may have them. Signs are posted, and in some cases, there may be radar feedback signs that remind drivers to slow down.
WSP spokesperson Chris Loftis said the cameras help fill gaps in enforcement, since patrol cars can’t monitor every site at once.
“The cameras give us extra eyes that are ongoing 24/7,” he said.
Several drivers, including construction worker Chad Vanhulle, told KIRO 7 they supported the project.
“I used to work in the road exclusively, and used to work nights,” Vanhulle said. “We had several times where people drove into our work zones drunk.”
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