The bill amends sections 17C-3-4a and 17C-3-4b of the West Virginia Code to increase fines and penalties for speeding and traffic violations in construction work zones when workers are present. Under the new provisions, individuals who fail to comply with traffic-control instructions in these zones will face increased fines, with penalties escalating from $250 for a first offense to $1,000 for third or subsequent offenses. Similarly, those who exceed posted speed limits by less than 15 miles per hour will incur fines of $500 when workers are present, while exceeding the limit by 15 miles per hour or more will result in fines of up to $1,000 and potential jail time.

Additionally, the bill establishes that violations of the Electronically Distracted Driving Act within construction zones when workers are present will incur fines that are double the standard penalties for such offenses. This legislative change aims to enhance safety for construction workers by imposing stricter penalties on drivers who violate traffic laws in these high-risk areas.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 17C-6-8a
Committee Substitute: 17C-3-4a, 17C-3-4b
Engrossed Committee Substitute: 17C-3-4a, 17C-3-4b
Enrolled Committee Substitute: 17C-3-4a, 17C-3-4b