Breaking the law in California construction zones? Here are tips to avoid a $1,000 ticket

Hanh Truong
·2 min read

Traffic slows to a standstill, and you’re stuck on the highway as construction crews work on the pavement.

It might be tempting to squeeze your way into a new lane or speed by the area, but you’ll want to be patient, Caltrans advises.

Although there have been efforts to improve safety in work zones, fatal crashes related to construction zones have increased by 53% in California since 2010, the Caltrans Division of Research, Innovation and System Information said in research notes from May 2024.

Here’s what to know when you’re in a work zone.

You can get a ticket for speeding

Under California Vehicle Code 22362, it is against the law to go over the posted speed limit when driving through a street or highway construction zone.

On highways, the speed is reduced by 10 mph, and the law stands even if construction workers aren’t present.

According to the vehicle code, construction area speed limits can be as low as 25 miles per hour.

Those speeding can get a ticket, with the amount depending on the speed.

California Highway Patrol officers typically patrol work areas and ticket motorists who don’t follow the posted speed limits — as seen recently with the lane closures on Interstate 5 in Sacramento.

How much can a ticket cost?

According to the state’s Department of Motor Vehicles’ handbook, traffic violations can typically result in fines of $1,000 or more.

In the event of a road rage incident where someone is convicted of assaulting a highway worker, fines can go up to $2,000 and they can face imprisonment for up to a year.

If you’re speeding in a highway construction or maintenance area where workers are present, fines are doubled.

Double fine zones

You can be fined double the amount in certain areas, dubbed “double fine zones,” the DMV said.

Certain roads are chosen for this due to a high likelihood of collision-related injuries and fatalities in the area. Typically, there is signage that will inform you if you’re in a double fine zone.

Drive safely with these tips

Caltrans has a handful of tips for driving safely in construction zones.

Here’s what to know behind the wheel:

  • Don’t change lanes unnecessarily.

  • Avoid using mobile phones while driving in work zones.

  • Turn on headlights so that workers and other drivers can see you.

  • Be especially alert at night while driving in work zones.

  • Expect delays, especially during peak travel times.

  • Allow ample space between you and the car in front of you.

  • Anticipate lane shifts, and merge when directed to do so.

  • Watch for workers; drive with caution.