Speeding in a Work Zone in Maryland: Hefty Fines and Criminal Charges

Let’s be honest. You’ve probably driven through a work zone without thinking too much about it. Maybe you didn’t even see any workers around. However, here’s the thing: Maryland takes work zone speeding very seriously. And if you’re caught driving too fast in one, you could face hefty fines, points on your license, or even criminal charges.

Whether you’re commuting through Baltimore, cruising I-95 near Laurel, or just running errands on a back road, ignoring work zone signs can turn a routine drive into a legal headache. As of January 1, 2024, Maryland’s penalties for work zone speeding have gotten tougher. So, let’s break down what’s changed, what you’re really up against, and how a speeding ticket lawyer can help you fight back.

Why work zones are treated differently in Maryland

Work zones are high-risk areas. You’re often dealing with narrowed lanes, shifting pavement, and sudden stops. It’s a recipe for disaster. Add in distracted or impatient drivers, and the risk skyrockets. That’s why Maryland is harsh with people who speed through them.

Under the new penalty structure effective in 2024, the state aims to reduce fatal crashes, protect road workers, and make drivers more accountable. And if that means hitting your wallet harder (or even bringing criminal charges), they’re willing to do it.

What counts as a “work zone” in Maryland?

According to Maryland Transportation Code § 21-810, a work zone is:

• Any area where construction, maintenance, or utility work is taking place on or near the roadway
• An area clearly marked with work zone signs, barrels, cones, or electronic message boards
• Places where work is underway or about to begin, even if no workers are present

Here’s the kicker: You don’t have to see workers for the zone to be active. If it’s marked, it counts, and the enhanced penalties apply.

What are the penalties for speeding in a Maryland work zone?

As of 2024, here’s what you could be facing:

1. Automated speed camera fines

• If you’re caught by a work zone speed camera going 12+ mph over the limit, you’ll be fined $80.
• No points are assessed, and the violation does not appear on your official driving record (insurers may still become aware of it, depending on their reporting and review policies).
• These cameras are usually mounted on poles or mobile vans and are clearly marked.

2. Traffic stop by a police officer

If an officer pulls you over for speeding in a work zone, things get much more serious:

• Up to $1,000 in fines
• Up to 6 points on your driver’s license
• Higher insurance premiums
• Possible reckless driving or negligent driving charges if the behavior was extreme

And yes, the fine can be stacked on top of other violations. If you’re also cited for reckless driving, aggressive driving, or DUI, expect a courtroom date and possibly a criminal record.

What changed under Maryland’s 2024 work zone law?

Before 2024, Maryland’s penalties for work zone speeding were fairly modest. Most people who got camera tickets just paid the $40 fine and moved on. However, too many drivers were still speeding through these zones at 70 or 80 mph.

So, lawmakers stepped in. The Work Zone Safety Act of 2023 increased the maximum fine for manual citations (those issued by officers) to $1,000 and expanded the use of cameras across state-managed roadways.

While criminal charges were always possible for crashes causing injury or death, the new law enhances penalties and broadens enforcement tools, including greater use of automated cameras.

Can speeding in a work zone lead to criminal charges?

Yes, in some cases. If your driving causes an accident that injures or kills a road worker (or even another driver), you could be charged with:

• Negligent driving – up to $500 fine, 3 points
• Reckless driving – up to $1,000 fine, 6 points
• Vehicular manslaughter – felony charge, jail time, and license revocation

Even without an accident, if you’re caught driving 30+ mph over the limit, the officer may cite you for reckless driving.

How are work zone speed camera tickets different from regular tickets?

If a speed camera catches you, you won’t get points, but that doesn’t mean you should ignore it.

Here’s what you need to know:

• The ticket is mailed to the vehicle’s registered owner, not necessarily the driver.
• You don’t have to be identified; the plate is enough for liability.
• You can request a court hearing, but defenses are limited.

Your best options are to:

• Pay the fine, if you know you were at fault and don’t want to risk further penalties.
• Contest the accuracy; for example, if the vehicle wasn’t yours, or the time/location data is wrong.
• Work with an attorney, especially if the fine is part of a larger traffic incident.

What defenses are available if you’re cited?

If you were manually cited by a police officer, your defense options are broader, and this is where having a Maryland speeding ticket lawyer can really help.

Possible defenses include:

• Improper signage – If the work zone wasn’t properly marked or lacked clear speed limit indicators, you might have a case.
• Lack of workers or active construction – While not a full defense, it can sometimes reduce the penalty.
• Emergency situations – Swerving or speeding to avoid a hazard may be a valid explanation.
• Calibration issues – If radar or LIDAR equipment wasn’t correctly maintained, the citation might be tossed.
• Camera inaccuracies – In rare cases, errors in license plate recognition or speed calculation may occur.

Will points be added to your license?

If it’s a camera ticket, no. However, if an officer issues the citation, then yes. Points may be added based on your speed and the nature of the charge:

• 1 to 9 mph over: 1 point
• 10 to 19 mph over: 2 points
• 20 to 29 mph over: 2 points
• 30+ mph over: 5 points
• Reckless driving: 6 points

Accumulate 8 points, and the MVA will send you a warning. Hit 12 points, and you’ll face license suspension.

What should you do if you’ve been cited?

1. Don’t ignore the ticket

Ignoring it will only lead to additional penalties, license suspension, and potential warrants.

2. Request a hearing or consult a lawyer

If you believe you weren’t speeding (or have a valid defense), don’t just pay the fine. You have the right to contest the charge in court.

3. Document everything

Take photos of the signage (or lack of it), road conditions, and anything that may support your defense. This is especially useful for arguing the ticket was unfair or excessive.

How can a Maryland speeding ticket lawyer help?

Even if you think the case is open and shut, a skilled lawyer can:

• Challenge evidence
• Negotiate a reduced penalty
• Prevent license points
• Request Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) to keep your record clean
• Appear on your behalf in court so you don’t have to

In some cases, they may even be able to get the charge dismissed entirely.

Slow down and lawyer up if needed

Speeding in a Maryland work zone is about more than just breaking the rules. You’re putting yourself and others in danger and the law reflects that. With higher fines, increased enforcement, and even criminal penalties on the table, you can’t afford to treat these tickets lightly.

If you’ve been cited for work zone speeding, contact Drew Cochran, Attorney at Law. We can help you navigate your options, challenge the evidence, and work to protect your license, your record, and your wallet.

Don’t try to figure it out alone. Contact our office today and let’s start building your defense.