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Friday, May 24, 2013
By Michael Nichols
Categories: Wendy M. Schiller-Nichols
Everyone is familiar with those orange cones that start showing up on Michigan roads in the Spring and Summer seasons. Motorists are required to reduce their speed to 45 MPH in any freeway work zone where workers are present. We have all seen the sign that reads: "Injure/kill a worker $7500 + 15 years", right? One exception to the speed limit reduction is if a concrete barrier wall exists between the workers and the vehicles. As of October 1, 2001, "Andy's Law" went into effect. This law created stiffer penalties for motorists who injure or kill highway construction workers. If you injure a highway construction or maintenance worker, you can face up to one year in jail and if you kill a highway construction or maintenance worker, you face up to 15 years prison. You can also be fined a maximum of $7,500.
The law is referred to as "Andy's Law" in recognition of a 19 year old highway worker who was severely injured when he was working on I-275 at a reconstruction project. Motorists should remember to drive the appropriate speed, pay attention and stay off the cell phone.
If you are charged with an offense in a construction zone, Attorney Wendy Schiller-Nichols can help. Call Nichols Law Firm at 517-432-9000 for a free phone consultation.