The Arkansas Highway Police (AHP), a division of the Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT), is utilizing new work zone camera technology that can detect handheld device usage while driving.
Currently, AHP uses cameras in interstate work zones to detect speeding violations. By mid-january, these work zone cameras will detect when drivers are using a handheld device in a work zone, such as a cell phone.
“It is against Arkansas law to use a handheld device in a work zone,” said AHP Chief Jeff Holmes. “Until now, the hands-free law in work zones has been relatively difficult to enforce. This new technology will help us keep road workers and the traveling public safer.”
The cameras used for speed enforcement and detection of the use of a handheld device are solely used to assist officers in enforcing laws in work zones. An officer must be present for a warning or ticket to be issued. This is not a ticket-by-mail system.
The camera detects when a driver is holding a cell phone or handheld device, sends an alert to an officer downstream, and the officer can safely pull over the driver when they exit the work zone.
Signs will alert drivers when they are entering a work zone with camera enforcement.
Arkansas law stipulates that data captured from these cameras shall not be retained except when it is used to issue a warning or citation.
“Safety is our top priority at ARDOT. This includes the safety of workers within work zones, travelers passing through work zones, and officers stationed in or near work zones.
Everyone deserves to make it home safely,” said ARDOT Director Jared Wiley. “This technology is yet another tool officers can use to enforce the laws that were enacted with safety in mind.”
