Little Rock, Arkansas – In an important move to improve road safety and protect highway workers, several new traffic safety laws passed during the 2025 Arkansas Legislative Session officially went into effect on Tuesday, August 5. These laws affect all travelers and aim to make roads safer for both drivers and construction personnel.
One of the most impactful changes is House Bill 1596, now known as Act 327 of 2025, which doubles fines for traffic violations in mobile work zones. Previously, only violations in static work zones were subject to increased fines. With this new law, drivers can now face double fines for infractions like speeding or reckless driving when passing mobile construction operations, such as road striping or pothole patching.
A mobile work zone refers to any temporary roadwork area on highways or roads where construction or maintenance is being performed by ARDOT, or city and county crews and contractors. These zones move frequently and may involve tasks like debris removal or minor repairs. Mobile work zones must be clearly marked using signs, barriers, or work trucks with flashing lights and a warning that reads, “mobile work zone/fines double.”
The law also extends protection to all construction personnel, including those from ARDOT, municipalities, counties, and private contractors.
Green Lights Added to Work Vehicles
Another new law, HB1475, now Act 209 of 2025, allows the use of green flashing lights on construction and maintenance vehicles operated by ARDOT and local agencies. This decision follows a successful pilot program and addresses visibility concerns during daytime and poor weather conditions.
Under this legislation, roadway vehicles can now legally use green, amber, white, or a combination of these flashing or rotating lights. This adjustment improves visibility of maintenance and construction vehicles, helping motorists spot them more easily and react in time, especially during fog, rain, or bright sunlight.
These added lights are not just a visibility enhancement — they are seen as a lifesaving measure for Arkansas road workers, who often operate close to fast-moving traffic.
Work Zone Safety Education Now Mandatory
To ensure that future drivers are more aware of these risks, the Arkansas Legislature passed Senate Bill 78, now Act 117 of 2025, which updates the Arkansas Driver’s Manual and license exam.
From now on, all new drivers must study information about how to drive safely through highway work zones and answer questions on the topic during the written driver’s license test.
The updated manual will now include:
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The dangers of speeding or driving recklessly in work zones
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The specific penalties for violations in these areas
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Real-life statistics that highlight the risks
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Personal stories and testimonials from construction workers and their families
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A Q&A section to reinforce proper driving behavior
This change not only raises awareness among new drivers but also serves as a reminder to seasoned motorists that safety in construction zones is critical.
A Step Toward Safer Roads
These legislative updates reflect Arkansas’s growing commitment to protecting both highway workers and motorists. With more visible work vehicles, stricter penalties in mobile work areas, and enhanced driver education, the state aims to reduce injuries and fatalities on its roadways.
As Governor-endorsed safety efforts take root, ARDOT encourages the public to learn more by visiting the Arkansas General Assembly website at arkleg.state.ar.us.
