Work Zone Safety Information Clearinghouse

Library of Resources to Improve Roadway Work Zone Safety for All Roadway Users

Practice

License plate photo-enforcement in work zones

A Minnesota study used the Motion Imaging Recording System (MIRS) to photograph the rear license plates of vehicles running red lights, speeding in roadway work zones, or driving under or around railroad crossing gates at several locations throughout Minnesota. In work zones, the study counted violations in a merging lane, with speed reduced to 40 mph, and with workers along the road. This was a joint project with multiple agencies on steering committee (3 cities, DPS, Metro Transit, Canadian Pacific Railway).

Assessment:

According to press release, efficiency of equipment was good, but camera quality was inconsistent. Problem is much more widespread than expected, with 60% of vehicles in work zones exceeding posted speed limit in metro test areas. State law must be chan

State/Agency: Minnesota
Where Documented: Report is available. Press release dated 1/26/98.
Notes: The clearinghouse has a copy of the press release.
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