Work Zone Traffic Legislation in Texas (1720-3)

This report presents the findings from speed studies before and after implementation of the double-fine law in Texas, as well as citation and fine data from those study sites. Also included in the report is an assessment of other legislation that could be enacted to promote work zone safety in Texas. Results of the speed and citation studies indicate that implementation of the double-fine law has had no measurable effect at the work zone study sites examined in this research. Discussions with law enforcement officers in Texas suggest that the provision that workers must be present in order for the fine to be doubled will be difficult to enforce statewide. Based on these and other discussions, the researchers recommend that efforts be taken to eliminate the worker presence requirement from the current law. The report includes other recommendations regarding legislation that should be considered for implementation.