LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) — Michigan is cracking down on dangerous driving with new laws that use traffic cameras to ticket speeding drivers in construction zones and those who ignore school bus stop signs. Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed the bipartisan bills—House Bills 4132, 4928, 4929, and 4930—on December 10, calling them a step toward safer roads.
“In Michigan, we’re focused on fixing the damn roads and making sure people are safe as they go to work, drop their kids off at school, and run errands,” Whitmer said in a press release. “Whether they’re driving on them or working on them, these bills will make sure that every Michigander is safe on our roads.”
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The new laws allow automated speed enforcement cameras to operate in construction zones, where speeding caused over 8,000 crashes and 24 deaths in 2023, according to state police.
Drivers caught on camera going 10 mph or more over the limit will first get a warning, followed by fines up to $300 for repeat violations, as reported by Bridge Michigan.
“Maintaining Michigan’s roads is vital for our state’s economic development and success,” State Representative Will Snyder (D-Muskegon) said in a statement. “This legislation will help combat speeding and reckless driving in construction zones, which will protect our essential road workers and drivers alike.”
The legislation also targets drivers who fail to stop for school buses with flashing red lights and extended stop-arms. Cameras mounted on buses will record violators’ license plates, with fines reaching $500. Revenue from these fines will go to school districts to fund additional cameras.
Michigan law already requires drivers to stop for school buses unless there is a raised median dividing the lanes. The new measures add teeth to these rules by enhancing enforcement through real-time camera technology.
Michigan joins 23 other states that have adopted automated speed enforcement in work zones.
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