On Tuesday 5th August, there had been several new laws passed to make Arkansas highways more safer. These new laws were passed during the legislative session and they were put in place to protect workers who work on the road, enhance driver awareness and decrease the dangerous incidents that occur on the road.
Fines Now Double in Mobile Work Zones
One of the most important changes stems from Act 327 of 2025. This multiplies fines by twice the original amount for moving traffic violations in mobile work zones. Up until now, fines were only doubled in static or stationary work zones.
A mobile work zone covers any location where crews are doing short-term maintenance or repairs along a roadway. This can include:
- Removing debris from the road
- Road striping
- Filling potholes
- Other short-term maintenance tasks
These mobile zones will be clearly marked with signs, cones, barriers, or work vehicles with lights. Under the new rule, all construction and maintenance crews regardless of whether from the Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT), private contractors, or city and county road departments, are all covered.
Whatever signage are in these areas will clearly state “Mobile Work Zones / Fines Double” so drivers know when penalties apply. Both mobile and stationary zones must give clear notice to motorists before higher fines can be enforced.
Green Lights to Improve Visibility
There is another change which is Act 209 of 2025. This is focused on making road work vehicles easier to see. The law now allows flashing or rotating amber, white, or green lights on ARDOT vehicles.
By adding lights, the department intends on improving visibility especially on days which are sunny and bright as well as on days when the weather condition is poor.
ARDOT officials believe this step will improve driver awareness and help prevent accidents involving work crews.
Work Zone Safety in Driver Education
The Act 117 of 2025, enhances the education for drivers by including work zone safety in the Arkansas Driver’s Manual. Questions on the topic will also appear on the written driver’s license test.
This section of the manual will cover:
- The dangers and risks of unsafe driving in highway work zones
- Penalties for traffic violations in these zones
- Statistics on work zone crashes and injuries
- Personal stories from road workers and their families
- Why slowing down and staying alert is critical
- A Q&A section on the safe operation of vehicles through work zones
ARDOT: “It’s About Safety, Not Tickets”
Dave Parker, Head of Public Information for ARDOT, highlighted that these new laws are aimed at saving lives, not generating revenue.
“These aren’t laws designed to write a bunch of tickets. They’re designed to keep everyone safe, and that’s a win-win.”
Public Reaction
The new measures have brough about different opinions from Arkansas residents.
Heath Farmer, who works for Delta Asphalts and spends much of his time in active road construction areas, was happy about the changes.
“I think it’s a fantastic idea,” Farmer said. “People drive super-fast going through our construction zones, so yeah, I think it’s great.”
Jase Robinson, however, expressed frustration, saying the fines feel like an unnecessary financial burden.
“I don’t like it at all. Anytime extra money is involved, like fines for people doing their job, I’m not for it. I think it’s ridiculous,” Robinson said.
A Wonderful Idea for Safer Roads
There are many lawmakers in Arkansas who are hopeful that these measures will push drivers to drive carefully. The state is trying to put forward many different strategies to protect drivers and employees. This ranges from improving driver education and also increasing vehicle visibility as well as imposing increased fines in mobile zones.