Construction Zone Speeding Ticket Texas | How to Dismiss It

Driving down Texas highways can sometimes feel routine, but one small mistake can cost you big. A traffic ticket for speeding in a work zone is more than just a citation; it can double your fines and increase your insurance rates for years. Understanding the rules and how to protect yourself is essential.

Fines in a Construction Zone

It’s important to know that construction zone fines only double when the ticket specifically notes that workers were present. If a work zone has signs but no workers, the speed limit still applies, but the fine does not automatically double. Always check your ticket for the ‘workers present’ notation to understand your actual penalty.

The total financial impact is often underestimated because insurance companies see these violations. Rates can go up by 20–30%, adding hundreds per year. For example, a 12 mph over-the-limit violation could cost nearly $1,900 over three years if not addressed.

Speed Limits in Construction Zones

Not all construction signs carry the same legal weight. Regulatory signs (black text on white backgrounds) are enforceable and set the legal speed limit. Warning signs (orange) only alert drivers that construction is ahead but do not create enforceable speed limits. Flashing signs like ‘REDUCED SPEED AHEAD’ indicate active enforcement zones.

Common reductions include:

• Normal highways: 70–75 mph

• Construction zones: 45–55 mph

• Urban work zones: 35–45 mph

Police monitor these zones carefully, particularly during peak traffic hours. Radar from overpasses is common, and officers know drivers often assume limits revert when workers are not visible.

Construction Zone Speed Limit

Speed Limit in Construction Zone

Regulatory signs with black text on white backgrounds create enforceable speed limits. Warning signs in orange indicate upcoming construction but do not establish legal limits. Flashing signs, such as "REDUCED SPEED AHEAD", signal active enforcement zones. Understanding these differences is crucial to avoid penalties.

Work Zone Speed Limit When No Workers

Many drivers assume that if workers are not present, they can ignore the reduced speed. This is incorrect. While construction zone fines double Texas only if workers are present, the work zone speed limit still applies whether or not equipment or personnel are visible. Ignoring these signs can result in a ticket.

Traffic Tickets for Speeding in a Work Zone

Receiving a construction zone ticket Texas can feel overwhelming. The first step is to check eligibility for defensive driving. Texas allows drivers to take a TDLR-approved defensive driving course to potentially dismiss the ticket, but tickets that specify workers present may not qualify. Completing this course not only helps remove the ticket but can prevent insurance rate increases. You can enroll in our online defensive driving course directly here.

Work Zone Speed Limit

Signs indicating work zone speed limits are enforceable until the "END CONSTRUCTION ZONE" sign appears. Some zones extend for miles, so remain attentive. Misjudging the end of the zone is a common cause of citations.

Move Over Slow Down Law Texas

The Move Over Slow Down Law Texas requires drivers to either change lanes or slow to 20 mph below the posted speed when approaching TxDOT, emergency, or service vehicles with flashing lights. Failure to comply can result in fines from $200 to $500 or higher if property damage or injury occurs.

Legal Requirements for Work Zone Signage

Proper signage is what makes a construction zone speed limit legally enforceable. If signs are missing, obscured, or improperly placed, your ticket may be contestable.

Sign Type: Regulatory signs (black text on white background) set enforceable limits; orange warning signs only alert drivers.

Placement: Signs must be visible from a distance, giving drivers enough time to slow down.

Start/End Info: Every zone should have a clearly marked beginning and end sign. Without this, enforcement can be challenged.

Common Legal Defenses & How to Challenge

If you get a ticket, there may be ways to challenge it legally. Understanding defenses increases your chance of reducing or dismissing fines.

• Improper signage: If the signs weren't correct or visible, you may contest the ticket.

• Missing documentation: Officers must note all details correctly; errors can help your case.

• Evidence: Photos or dashcam footage of unclear signs can support your defense.

What Happens If You Ignore the Ticket

Ignoring a construction zone ticket Texas can make the situation worse.

• Additional fines: Your original fine increases.

• Collections and warrants: Courts may issue a warrant for your arrest if you don't respond.

• License issues: Your driver's license can be suspended, leading to more legal problems.

Driving vs Deferred Disposition

Drivers often confuse these two options. Knowing the difference helps you make the best choice.

Defensive Driving: A TDLR-approved course that can dismiss eligible tickets and prevent insurance rate increases. Usually six hours online.

Some drivers confuse defensive driving with deferred disposition. Deferred disposition is generally not available in construction zones if workers were present, similar to defensive driving. Only the court can confirm eligibility. Always contact your court to verify what options are allowed for your specific ticket.

Tip: Always check with the court for eligibility before enrolling.

Other Work Zone Violations

Speeding is not the only offense in work zones. Understanding other violations can help avoid fines.

• Tailgating: Following too closely in a work zone is dangerous and punishable.

• Unsafe lane changes: Sudden or improper lane changes in construction areas can lead to tickets.

• Distracted driving: Using phones or devices in a work zone increases fines and legal risk.

Crash & Enhanced Penalties

Crashes in a work zone can significantly increase penalties.

• Fines escalate: If speeding leads to a crash, fines can exceed $2,000.

• Insurance impact: Rates increase more than a normal ticket.

• Legal consequences: Liability may include criminal charges if someone is injured.

Points & Insurance Breakdown

Tickets in work zones affect more than fines—they affect your driving record and insurance.

A construction zone violation can add points to your driving record, usually 2–3 points depending on speed over the limit, and points generally remain for 3 years. Insurance rates often increase 20–30%, depending on your provider and history. Completing a TDLR-approved defensive driving course can prevent points from appearing and sometimes gives a small insurance discount.

• Insurance increase: Premiums can rise 20–30% after a violation.

• Defensive driving benefits: Completing a TDLR-approved course can prevent points and sometimes provide a small discount on insurance.

Construction Zone Ticket Texas: How to Dismiss

Eligible drivers can dismiss a construction zone ticket Texas by:

1. Contacting the court immediately to confirm eligibility for defensive driving.

2. Enrolling in a TDLR-approved course.

3. Completing the course within 90 days.

4. Submitting the certificate and Type 3A driving record to the court.

Our online defensive driving course is designed to fit your schedule, allowing you to complete it safely and efficiently from any device.

Temporary Speed Limit Signs Texas

Temporary speed limit signs Texas enforce the reduced speed even when workers are absent. They remain valid until the posted end of the construction zone. Drivers must follow these to avoid tickets and legal issues.

FAQ

Do I have to slow down if no one is working?
A: Yes, the speed limit in the work zone applies regardless of workers present.

Can a defensive driving course dismiss my ticket?
A: Only if the ticket does not indicate workers were present. Always confirm with your court.

How much can insurance increase?
A: Typically 20–30% over three years for a construction zone violation.

Are all construction zones the same?
A: No. Some are urban with lower limits, while rural highways may have higher construction zone limits.

Summary

Navigating work zone speed limits Texas requires awareness and compliance:

• Always follow construction zone speed limit signs.

• Construction zone fines double Texas if workers are present.

• Defensive driving courses can help dismiss tickets in eligible cases.

• The Move Over Slow Down Law Texas is enforceable and crucial for safety.

• Temporary and regulatory signs dictate the legal speed limit in construction zone.

By staying attentive, understanding Texas traffic laws, and using resources like our defensive driving course, you can protect your driving record and reduce the financial impact of a work zone citation.