Kim Fundingsland/MDN A work zone on Minot’s northwest edge has resulted in driving violations recently. Heavy fines can be levied against motorists who fail to abide by special signage in construction zones.

Slow down. Use caution. Keep yourself and others safe. Obey the signs.

That’s the recommended driving formula for motorists encountering work zones. Failure to do so can be dangerous and costly. Usually areas of the roadway where construction workers are busy are clearly marked with orange cones, striped markers and bright orange signs.

Failure to follow the directions at properly signed work zones can result in endangering workers. Fines levied against motorists who fail to comply with posted speed limits in work zones can be substantial. It can also mean points against a driver’s license.

Work zones signed with “minimum fee $80” can be especially costly. For example, in Minot Municipal Court this week a Minot man was charged with driving 52 miles per hour in a 35 mile per hour zone. The fine was $94 along with three points against his driver’s license. An accumulation of 12 points leads to a suspension of driving privileges.

In the above mentioned case circumstances led the judge to substantially reduce the amount of the fine. However, increased fines are the rule for speeding in construction zones. An examples includes a $102 fine and loss of five points on a driver’s license for driving 56 mph in a 35 mph zone.

There are some requirements placed upon those marking a construction zone too. According to the North Dakota Highway Patrol, for construction zones to meet criteria for increased fines they must be signed properly. Also, for maximum fines, construction workers must be present.

The North Dakota Department of Transportation reminds all drivers to pay attention in work zones and advises motorists to slow down, even if workers are not visible, and to expect the unexpected. Furthermore, urges the DOT, remember the three S’s – speed check, space check and stress check.

Speed check is a reminder to slow down when you approach a work zone and follow the posted speed limits regardless of whether or not workers are present. Space check involves leaving at least two seconds between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you. The stress check encourages drivers to plan ahead and consult the DOT’s Travel Information Map so you’ll know when to expect delays.