10/16/08-Gov. Jennifer Granholm signed two new laws that provide stiffer penalties for injuring or killing another person in Michigan construction zones. The new rules took effect immediately.
Michigan law already doubles fines for speeding in work zones. Enhanced penalties are given for injuring or killing highway workers in construction zones. Penalties can result in $7,500 fines and up to 15 years in prison.
The two-bill package – HB4468 and HB4469 – applies the same penalties if anyone is injured or killed by a driver in a work zone. Drivers who injure others face up to one year behind bars and/or $1,000 fines. Incidents that result in death to others could result in the maximum penalties.
HB4468 also deletes a requirement that the Michigan Department of Transportation or a road authority place at work zones signs notifying drivers of the increased fines and penalties for the protection and safety of construction workers.