Program Overview

Goals

Driving too fast for conditions is one of the most prevalent factors contributing to traffic crashes. Driving too fast for conditions reduces a driver’s ability to safely navigate through and react to work zone conditions, like slow-moving construction vehicles entering and exiting the work area.

With that in mind, the goals of the Maryland SafeZones program are to reduce excessive speeding in work zones, improve driver behavior and attentiveness, and promote work zone safety. The Maryland SafeZones program not only safeguards workers but also protects drivers and passengers traveling through construction zones.

In work zones where deployed, automated speed enforcement has been effective in slowing traffic, evidenced by the drop in citations issued at these work zones.

Program History

Transportation Article §21-810 became effective on October 1, 2009. This law allows the use of cameras to fine drivers exceeding the posted speed limit by 12 mph or more in work zones along controlled access roadways with a 45 mph or higher speed limit. The civil fine was set by the District Court at $40. No points are assessed against your driver's license.

On October 1, 2009, the Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration (MDOT SHA), Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) and the Maryland State Police (MSP) launched a pilot automated speed enforcement program.

Current Program

The long-term Maryland SafeZones program began on July 1, 2010

Speed enforcement through the Maryland SafeZones program is conducted by trained operators using laser technology and cameras mounted on enforcement vehicles, which display the program logo. All citations are verified by MSP or MDTA Police, depending on the location of the work zone.

Maryland SafeZones enforcement vehicles rotate among eligible work zones throughout the State. As new eligible projects begin, other work zones are added to the program.

Advanced signage alerts drivers of the posted speed limit and that there may be automated speed enforcement in the work zone. Additionally, a display trailer posts the speed limit and provides a digital reading of approaching vehicle speeds in advance of the enforcement vehicle. The intent of the trailer is to prompt drivers to check their speedometers so that they can reduce their vehicle speed if necessary.