Local Law Enforcement Targets Reckless Driving In Construction Zones

Think speeding through a construction zone is okay? Think again. First, it's breaking the law, and secondly, you may just get caught up in Operation Hard Hat.

Operation Hard Hat continues throughout the Southern Tier of New York. The latest effort was conducted by the New York State Police and the Broome County Sheriff's Department.

New York State Department of Transportation road crews are currently repairing a bridge rail over Front Street, Binghamton, in a 55 mph zone. During the roadwork, the left lane is closed, while two other lanes remain open to accommodate traffic flow.

According to the report from the New York State Police, during the four-hour detail, 109 tickets were issued within the work zone on Interstate 81 in the Town of Chenango.

Read More: Broome County Sheriff Arrest Report For The Week

What Is Operation Hard Hat?

The goal of Operation Hard Hat is to target reckless and distracted drivers in work zones, crack down on work zone violations, and highlight the importance of safe driving when approaching construction, maintenance, and emergency operations along state highways.

Troopers and Law Enforcement are dressed as construction workers in the work zone area, watching for reckless behavior like speeding or people on electronic devices.

Over 100 Citations Issued

The New York State Police report noted that during the Interstate 81/Front Street work zone, law enforcement issued the following citations:

• 27 - cellphones (operating an electronic device)
• 36 – speeding (highest of 87 mph in the 55-mph zone)
• 27 – no seatbelt
• 19 – other

During this Labor Day weekend and beyond, our local law enforcement agencies urge motorists to drive responsibly in work zones. Pay attention to the speed limit and signage in work zones.  Please keep our road work crews safe, as well as other motorists.