North Dakota Safety Council supports Senate Bill 2183 for construction zone safety improvements

The North Dakota House Transportation Committee convened on March 13, 2025, to discuss critical issues surrounding construction zone safety and distracted driving. The meeting highlighted the need for increased penalties for speeding in construction zones, as well as the growing concern over distracted driving, which has been identified as a leading cause of traffic accidents.

One of the primary discussions focused on the effectiveness of higher fines as a deterrent for speeding in construction zones. Representatives debated whether strategically placed illuminated signs could enhance compliance with speed limits, suggesting that visual cues might be more effective than fines alone. The committee acknowledged that while fines are a straightforward approach, they may not address the underlying issue of distracted driving, which often leads to speeding violations.

Don Moseman, the training director of the North Dakota Safety Council, expressed strong support for Senate Bill 2183, which aims to increase fines in construction zones. He cited studies from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration indicating that higher fines are among the most effective measures to reduce injuries and fatalities in work zones. Moseman shared his experience as a former state trooper, noting that raising fines in Colorado led to a significant decrease in speeding incidents in construction areas.

The committee also explored the challenges of enforcing distracted driving laws. Representatives discussed the difficulty of proving distraction, particularly in cases where drivers are using their phones. Suggestions were made to consider additional penalties for distracted driving, but concerns were raised about the practicality of enforcement and the need for clear evidence.

Overall, the meeting underscored the urgent need to enhance safety measures for both workers and motorists in construction zones. The discussions will likely influence future legislative actions aimed at improving road safety in North Dakota. The committee's next steps will involve further deliberation on the proposed bill and potential amendments to address the complexities of distracted driving enforcement.