Speed Cameras May Soon Be Watching California Work Zones

Speeding through work zones in California may soon come with a hefty price tag if workers are present. A new bill making its way through the California Assembly seeks to crack down on reckless driving in highway construction zones by installing automated speed cameras and issuing fines to violators.

This legislation is known as Assembly Bill 289. It was introduced by Assemblymember Matt Haney (D-San Francisco) and proposes a pilot program to help protect the people most at risk from car and pedestrian accidents: road workers.

Under this bill, the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) would be authorized to install up to 75 speed cameras in work zones across the state. The cameras would only be allowed to issue speeding citations when construction or maintenance workers are actively present, ensuring that enforcement is targeted and fair.

How would the speed camera fines work?

The proposed fine structure is tiered based on how fast you're driving over the posted speed limit. For drivers caught for the first time going 11 to 15 mph over the speed limit, the fine is $50. The fine increases incrementally from there. The highest penalty is $500 for drivers traveling 100 mph or more.

Assemblymember Haney’s office cited successful programs in Maryland and Pennsylvania as inspiration. In those states, similar speed camera initiatives have resulted in an 80% decrease in speeding violations. They also led to a 20% reduction in crashes in construction zones.

What do safety advocates say about this bill?

While there’s always debate around automated enforcement, supporters argue that something has to change. One of the bill’s most vocal advocates is Michael Sprouse, president of the California chapter of the American Traffic Safety Services Association (ATSSA). He’s been working in traffic control for nearly three decades, and he’s never seen anything like today’s reckless driving habits.

"We keep increasing the amount of signs, cones, and barricades – to seemingly no effect on driver behavior," Sprouse said in a recent press release. "On freeways, where the risk to everyone involved is the greatest, enforcing speed controls is the most effective way to ensure everyone goes home to their families at the end of the day."

Where does the bill stand now?

A.B. 289 was first introduced on January 22, and it’s already cleared three Assembly committees. The next step is a review by the full California Assembly. If the bill passes, it won’t immediately result in a statewide rollout of speed cameras. Instead, it would initiate a pilot program to assess the effectiveness of these cameras in California’s unique highway environment. Think of it as a trial run, with the potential to expand later if the results are positive.

For drivers who tend to speed through work zones, this bill might give them pause. It’s not about catching people in the act to make money. It’s about using data and automated tools to change dangerous driving habits before they result in tragedy. While there’s always room for debate, the core idea behind A.B. 289 is hard to argue with. Everyone deserves to make it home safe at the end of the day, whether they’re behind the wheel or holding a shovel.

What dangers do roadside workers face?

Roadside workers face a variety of dangers every day they step into a live traffic environment. The most common risks they face include:

Speeding and distracted drivers

One of the most serious threats is vehicles speeding through work zones or drivers who are texting, eating, or otherwise not paying attention. Even a momentary distraction can result in a fatal crash, especially in tight or poorly lit areas.

Limited visibility

Work zones are often set up in low-light conditions, at night, or during poor weather, which makes it harder for drivers to see workers until it’s too late. Even with reflective gear and warning signs, some drivers don’t react in time.

Close proximity to moving traffic

There’s often very little separating workers from fast-moving vehicles; sometimes just a few cones or temporary barriers. One wrong move by a driver (or even a worker) can result in disaster.

Aggressive or impaired drivers

Some drivers get impatient in construction zones and take risks, such as weaving between cones or ignoring flaggers. Others may be under the influence of alcohol or drugs, which seriously impairs their judgment and reaction time.

Inadequate signage or traffic control

If a work zone isn’t set up properly with clear signage, flaggers, and barriers, drivers might not even realize they need to slow down until they’re right in the danger zone.

Lack of enforcement

Even with signs that say "Slow Down – Work Zone," drivers often ignore the warnings if there’s no visible enforcement. Without consequences, risky behavior continues.

What should I do if I'm injured by a negligent driver in a work zone?

If you’ve been injured by a negligent driver in a work zone, the most important thing you can do is seek immediate medical attention, even if your injuries seem minor. Then, take photos of the crash scene and gather information from witnesses and parties involved. Don’t speak to the other driver’s insurance company before getting legal advice. Work zone crashes are often complicated due to the involvement of multiple parties, including construction crews and state agencies.

At Clancy & Diaz, LLP, we understand the devastating impact of work zone accidents. In addition to physical injuries, you're also facing financial and emotional devastation. Our attorneys will listen to your story, investigate who was responsible, and build a case that pursues the full compensation you’re entitled to for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

The sooner you reach out, the sooner we can help you take control of your situation and begin working toward full compensation. Contact us online or call our law offices in Walnut Creek, Antioch, Pittsburg, or Benicia to schedule a free consultation. You won’t pay us a cent unless we win your case. Let us fight for you, while you focus on healing.

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