Last Updated on June 7, 2025 by Beltz Law Group
Navigating Rockwall County’s Construction Zones: Understanding and Defending Speeding Tickets
Rockwall Ticket Defense Lawyer
As of 2025, if you’ve driven through Rockwall County, you’ve undoubtedly noticed that almost the entire highway system is under significant construction. From major interstates to local roadways, Orange barrels and cones have become a constant presence, signaling reduced speed limits and increased caution. While these projects are vital for the county’s growth and infrastructure, they also mean a heightened risk of receiving a speeding ticket, especially in “construction zones with workers present.”
The Steep Cost of Speeding in a Construction Zone with Workers Present
Texas law takes speeding in a construction zone very seriously, and the penalties are significantly enhanced when workers are present. This isn’t just about revenue; it’s about protecting the lives of the men and women who are working tirelessly to improve our roads, often just feet away from fast-moving traffic.
Under Texas Transportation Code § 542.404, if you are cited for any offense, including speeding, in a construction or maintenance work zone when workers are present, the minimum and maximum fines are doubled. This means a routine speeding ticket that might normally cost a few hundred dollars can easily escalate to hundreds or even over a thousand dollars. For example, a ticket that might normally be $250 could easily jump to $500 or more with the “workers present” endorsement.
Beyond the immediate financial hit, a conviction for this type of offense goes on your permanent driving record, potentially leading to:
- Increased Insurance Premiums: Your insurance company will see this as a high-risk violation, almost certainly resulting in a significant increase in your rates for years to come.
- Future License Suspension Risk: While the old “points system” is gone, accumulating convictions on your driving record still increases your risk of future license suspensions, especially if you have other violations.
How the Beltz Law Group Can Help You in Rockwall County
Receiving a speeding ticket in a construction zone, especially one with the “workers present” notation, can feel overwhelming. However, a citation does not automatically mean a conviction. The Beltz Law Group has extensive experience defending drivers against these charges in Rockwall
CITATION IN CONSTRUCTION ZONE WITH WORKERS PRESENT LAWYER
County courts. Our goal is always to achieve the best possible outcome for your specific situation.
Here’s how we can assist:
- Challenging the “Workers Present” Endorsement: One of our primary strategies is to meticulously investigate whether workers were actually present in the construction zone at the exact time of the alleged offense. The “workers present” designation significantly increases the fine. If we can demonstrate that there were no active workers in the zone at that moment, we can often get this endorsement dropped, making the case much more financially reasonable. This requires a thorough review of the officer’s notes, any available video evidence, and sometimes even visiting the location.
- Negotiating for Deferred Disposition: Our ultimate aim in many speeding in a construction zone cases is to negotiate a deal with the prosecutor for deferred disposition. This is a form of probation where, if you successfully complete certain conditions (such as a probationary period with no further violations), the ticket is dismissed and kept off your driving record. This is crucial for avoiding insurance premium hikes and preventing the conviction from impacting your future driving privileges. While not guaranteed, our experience and relationships within the Rockwall County legal system often allow us to secure these favorable outcomes.
- Comprehensive Defense: We will review all aspects of your case, including the accuracy of speed measurement devices, the clarity and placement of signage, and proper procedure by the ticketing officer. Our legal team will work diligently to build the strongest possible defense on your behalf.
- Protecting Your Driving Privileges: Should your license be suspended due to this or other traffic violations, we can also assist you in applying for an Occupational Driver License (ODL), often referred to as an “essential need license.” This special license can allow you to continue driving legally for work, school, or essential household duties while your regular license is suspended.
Don’t Just Pay the Fine – Fight for Your Record!
A speeding ticket in a Rockwall County construction zone with workers present is not a minor issue. Simply paying the fine is an admission of guilt and will result in a conviction on your permanent driving record, leading to substantial financial penalties and potential long-term consequences.
If you’ve received a speeding ticket in a Rockwall County construction zone, contact the Beltz Law Group today. Let us put our knowledge and experience to work for you, striving to achieve an outcome that protects your driving record and your wallet. Call us for a consultation – we’re here to help you navigate these complex legal waters.
