There are specific laws and regulations related to construction zones which motoritis need to keep in mind:
Speed Limits:
Reduced speed limits are common in construction zones to protect workers and drivers. These limits are typically indicated by temporary orange signs.
Flaggers:
Flaggers are authorized to control traffic flow. Drivers must obey their directions and traffic signals within the work zone.
Lane Usage:
Drivers should avoid unnecessary lane changes within construction zones and maintain a safe distance from workers and equipment.
General Traffic Laws:
All standard traffic laws, such as those related to distracted driving, apply in construction zones. Distracted driving, such as using cell phones, is particularly dangerous in these areas.
Increased Fines:
Violations of traffic laws in construction zones often carry higher fines than in non-construction areas.
Kansas Specifics:
In Kansas, it is unlawful to fail to comply with traffic regulations or directions from flaggers within a construction zone.
General Safety Recommendations:
Be Alert: Pay close attention to traffic control devices, signs, and markings, according to the Federal Highway Administration (.gov).
Reduce Speed: Adjust your speed to the posted limits within the construction zone.
Avoid Distractions: Minimize distractions like cell phones and focus on the road ahead.
Maintain Distance: Keep a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead and from workers and equipment.
Be Patient: Construction zones can cause delays, so patience is essential for everyone's safety.
Did you know?
About 90% of the time, the people injured in work zone crashes are motorists. In 2024 in Kansas, eight people died in work zone crashes and 508 people were injured.
Double fines in all Kansas work zones, whether in major construction projects or short-term maintenance projects. If you don’t slow down, you will pay up.
The top contributing circumstance of work zone crashes is inattention. Others include following too closely, driving too fast for conditions, improperly changing lanes and violating the right of way.
There was an average of 4.6 work zone crashes every day in Kansas in 2024
(1,705 crashes). The good news – about
75% of the crashes were property damage
only. The bad news – every crash has the
possibility of affecting lives forever.
lSpeeding up to 65 mph from 55 mph will
only save you a minute on a 6-mile trip.
lThe Kansas Move Over Law requires
motorists on four-lane highways to switch to
the lane farthest from any stationary vehicle
displaying flashing lights, if it is safe to do so.
Citations are a $195 fine plus court costs.
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