Arkansas Unveils New Cameras to Catch Distracted Drivers in Work Zones

Drivers, take notice if you are traveling through Arkansas, the Arkansas Highway Police, a division of the Arkansas Department of Transportation, is utilizing new work zone camera technology that can detect handheld device usage while driving.

New Work Zone Cameras That Detect a Driver Using a Hand-Held Device

This new technology is expected to be ready by mid-January, and these new cameras will be able to detect if a driver is using a handheld device in a work zone, such as a cell phone.

Arkansas Highway Police currently use interstate work zone cameras that detect speeding. Most drivers are not slowing down in work zones, and these new cameras will help in enforcing the law.

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According to AHP, this has become a major problem on roadways where work is being done; not only does it put the workers' lives at risk, but drivers' as well. It is against the law in Arkansas to use a handheld device in a work zone.

"This new technology will help us keep road workers and the traveling public safer,” said AHP Chief Jeff Holmes.

Furthermore, an officer must be present for a warning or ticket to be issued. This is not a ticket-by-mail system. The cameras used for speed enforcement and detection, or the use of a handheld device, are solely used to assist officers in enforcing laws in work zones.

How The New Work Zone Cameras Work

The new technology works like this: the camera detects when a driver is holding a cell phone or handheld device, sends an alert to an officer down the road, and the officer can safely pull over the driver when they exit the work zone.

READ MORE: Have You Seen The New Arkansas Conservation License Plate?

Drivers should stay alert and look for signs when approaching a work zone with camera enforcement.  The law states that any data captured from these cameras shall not be retained except when it is used to issue a warning or citation.

The Arkansas Department of Transportation reminds drivers that safety is its top priority. This new technology is yet another tool officers can use to enforce the laws that were enacted with safety in mind.”