Speed Cameras To Protect Maryland Work Zones

LAUREL Md. (WUSA) -- Mobile speed cameras will begin operations in large work zones on interstate highways in Maryland beginning Wednesday Oct. 1.

"For these workers, this is the office," said Maryland Secretary of Transportation Beverly Swaim-Staley. "Reduced speed means a safer workplace."

During the last decade, an average of 12 motorists per year are killed in Maryland work zones. Workers who have been killed included 54-year-old Rick Moser of Frederick County, who died when he was struck in a marked work zone by a speeding pickup truck in June of 2007.

Motorists approaching the work zones will pass large signs warning that speed cameras are in use. In addition, electronic signs will display speeds before vehicles reach the camera location.

Cameras will be operated by a worker from inside a marked vehicle parked on the side of the highway.

Motorists exceeding the posted work zone speed by 12 miles per hour or more will be sent violation letters by mail. The fine is $40.

Work zones on I-95 north at the ICC interchange, I-95 past Baltimore, and on the Baltimore Beltway through Towson will be the first in Maryland to be protected by speed camera systems.