Speed Limits in Construction Work Zone Area

 Speed Limits in Construction Work Zone Area

When lanes are closed for construction, paving, or painting on interstate highways in New Jersey, a lower speed limit is typically posted for the "work zone." For instance, it's reduced to 50 miles per hour in an area that usually has a speed limit of 65.

But what about roadside work being done on smaller state highways or 35 mph residential roads? How much should drivers slow down as they pass through those areas?

"Reducing speed in a work zone is a regulatory action, reserved for long-term projects involving changes to roadway configuration, lane shifts, or lane closures," explained Joe Bertoni, Deputy Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Transportation.

In general, the Federal Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), rather than New Jersey regulations, governs the limits for work zone speed. The MUTCD prescribes that work zone speed limits should be set 10 miles per hour slower than the usual posted limit, and in some cases, up to 15 miles per hour slower, but this applies primarily to projects spanning a mile or more. It doesn't encompass situations like a single utility worker in a bucket working on a power line or landscapers trimming tree branches.

Therefore, according to Bertoni, the best course of action is to stay alert.

"Whenever you approach a work zone, whether it's a large or small one, exercise caution and adhere to all construction signage," he advised.

NJDOT strongly discourages driving through construction zones at the normal speed limit. If a specific temporary speed limit isn't posted, it's ultimately at the motorist's discretion to reduce their speed by 10, 15, or 20 miles per hour.

Ultimately, it comes down to using common sense, paying attention to your surroundings, and being aware of the activities happening on the roadway, Bertoni emphasized.

Regarding personal injury or property damage caused by a driver disregarding the caution signaled by orange cones, penalties for such incidents are determined and enforced by law enforcement.

Bertoni stressed that the overarching rule that applies in these situations corresponds to a well-known New Jersey driving law: Slow down and move over.

"We would like to remind motorists to slow down through work zones and move over for first responders," he urged. "By working together, we can make our highways safer for everyone."