[JULY 9, 2005] SPRINGFIELD -- State
Sen. Larry Bomke,
R-Springfield, is warning 50th District residents against speeding
through work zones this summer, as tough new laws targeting drivers
who break construction zone speed limits went into effect on July 1.
"Beginning July 1, state troopers have been positioning specially
equipped vans at construction areas to take photographs of drivers
speeding in Illinois Department of Transportation and tollway
construction and maintenance zones," Bomke said.
"Under enhanced penalties that were approved by the Legislature
and Governor Blagojevich last year, first-time work zone speeders
will be given a fine of $375. Second-time offenders will be subject
to a $1,000 fine and the loss of their license for 90 days. All
offenders will also receive demerit points against their license,
which can result in increased insurance rates."
Signs will be posted when work zone speed limits are being
enforced by camera, and photo enforcement vans will be equipped with
cameras designed to record a clear image of the vehicle and driver,
the vehicle's speed, and the license plate. Offenders will
subsequently be sent a ticket by mail, although the registered owner
will not be liable if someone else is driving the vehicle.
Bomke explained that the consequences for speeding were enhanced
in an effort to deter motorists from driving through Illinois work
zones quickly and recklessly, which can pose a danger to both
construction workers and other drivers. According to preliminary
data from 2004, 39 people were killed in work zones last year, two
of whom were construction workers.
"I want to stress how important it is to adhere to the posted
speed limits in Illinois construction zones, which can prevent many
of the accidents and injuries that are caused by crashes in these
areas," Bomke said. "I realize that there are a significant number
of people who will be traversing state highways and interstates this
summer, and I encourage all motorists to drive cautiously and obey
all traffic laws."
