Texas Work Zone Laws

How Texas handles work zones

Texas doubles the fine only when workers are present. Slow to the posted orange limit the moment you pass the sign; that reduced limit holds the whole zone, but the double lands only if workers are in it and the ticket states so on its face (Transp. Code §542.404). A flagger counts as a warning sign here, so ignoring the paddle is its own offense (§472.022). No work-zone speed cameras, and no handheld ban beyond the statewide texting rule.

Speed, fines, phone, and the flagger

• Speed rule: Obey the posted orange work-zone limit the whole time the signs stand. The enhanced penalty applies only when workers are actually present and the citation says so (Transp. Code §542.404).
• Fine multiplier: Fine doubled when workers are present. Both the minimum and maximum fine double, but only if workers are in the zone and the written notice to appear states it (Transp. Code §542.404).
• Phone in a work zone: Covered by the general handheld rule
• Flagger authority: A flagger is a 'warning sign' under Texas law. Ignore the paddle or drive around a barricade and you commit an offense: a fine of $1 to $200, doubled to $2 to $400 with workers present, and a Class B misdemeanor at a flooded-road barricade (Transp. Code §472.022).
• Base fine: About $200 base (Class C speeding, up to $200 plus court costs), doubled to as much as $400 when workers are present.

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