The infraction or offense of speeding in a construction or work zone is committed when the driver of a motor vehicle in a marked construction/work zone exceeds the posted speed limit or exceeds the speed limit that is reasonable and prudent under the circumstances or conditions—conditions such as the road (straight, curved, wet, dry, icy, flat, hilly); the weather (clear, foggy, raining, snowing); and the visibility (smoke from a grass fire or a tractor trailer obstructing the view).

Laws vary from state to state and in many states the construction or work zone speed limit only applies when workers are present and the zone is clearly marked with signs. But drivers should be aware that the construction or work zone often extends past where barrels or other barriers have been placed on the road and the reduced speed limit continues to apply until there is a sign indicating an increased speed limit.

Laws regarding speeding in a construction or work zone (and their enforcement) vary from state to state and among cities and towns (local ordinances) and are usually located in a state’s statutes. The penalty for speeding in a construction or work zone is usually a fine and demerit points added to the driver’s license or driving record. But the fines and penalties for speeding in a construction zone are usually much greater than for a typical speeding ticket or citation—for example, fines may be doubled.

In North Carolina, speeding in a construction or work zone is considered a serious offense. The state enforces higher penalties for speeding in these zones to ensure the safety of workers and other motorists. The fines for speeding in a construction or work zone in North Carolina are typically doubled, as per N.C. Gen. Stat. § 20-141(j2). This statute stipulates that any driver exceeding the posted speed limit in a work zone, where workers are present, is subject to a fine of $250 in addition to any other penalty or court costs imposed for the speeding violation. It's important to note that the increased fines apply regardless of whether the workers are present at the time of the offense. Additionally, the work zone must be properly marked with signs, and the reduced speed limit remains in effect until a sign indicates that the normal speed limit resumes. Drivers should also be aware that accumulating demerit points on their driving record can lead to increased insurance premiums and, in some cases, the suspension of their driver's license.