LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- A new law in Kentucky is intended to improve safety in highway work zones, LEX18 reported this week.
House Bill 664, also known as the Jared Lee Helton Act of 2025, allows the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet to implement automated speed enforcement technology in highway work zones and issue a civil citation to a driver going more than 10 miles per hour over the posted speed limit when a worker is present.
The pilot program will allow KYTC to install signage with lights that are flashing when an automated speed enforcement device is active. Courtesy warnings will be given for the first 30 days following the date of when the system is active.
The law attempts to reduce the risks faced by construction crews and drivers.
"I wanted to make a difference, and now this will be Jared's lifelong legacy," Lonja Helton, his mother, said to LEX18. "Think about it for a minute. It could be your child, it could be your son, daughter, it could be your husband, it could be your wife. Slow down, just take your time."
KYTC reported almost 300 injuries and seven fatalities in work zones around Kentucky.
Speeding violations in work zones can result in fines up to $500. Those fines increase to $10,000 if a violation results in an injury or death.
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