When Do Construction Zone Speed Limits Apply On Illinois Roads?

Yes, construction is everywhere, but it seems like it's a year-round thing in Illinois. This can be incredibly annoying and inconvenient when traveling through the entire state. The long and sometimes tedious drive can seem endless when traveling 70 miles per hour and then slowing to 45 mph for miles.

Obviously, the change in speed is out of an abundance of caution for construction crews' safety and drivers' too. But what about then there is no active construction in the zoned area? Is it OK to travel at the original speed limit or does the construction zone speed still apply?

Did You Know:

In Illinois, on average from 2010 to 2014, there were over 4,500 work zone motor vehicle crashes, resulting in nearly 1,100 injuries, and 27 fatalities with an average of 2 worker fatalities per year. (Illinois Department Of Transportation)

The question of when construction zone speed limits apply is important because drivers might think that since no workers are present the temporary signage may not apply. You yourself may have the same mindset and travel through the stretch of road at the normal speed limit as if there wasn't any construction at all.

If you were to make that assumption without certainty you may be setting yourself up for some serious fines, not to mention risking the safety of yourself, your passengers, and other vehicles. Even more, it's possible for photo speed enforcement to be present without drivers even realizing it.

ANSWER:

Illinois State Police shared a photo for drivers via social media, reminding them construction zone speed limits must always be followed regardless of activity within the zoned area.

Whether law enforcement or photo speed enforcement cameras catch drivers with their radar, the fines for speeding in a construction zone are the same.

• $375 for the first offense
• Minimum of $1000 for the second offense
• 90-day driver's license suspension if the second offense is within two years of the first offense

The question of drivers cited for construction zone violations is required to appear in court the answer is yes. You can read more here.