Spring Construction Zone Tickets on M-14 and Ann Arbor Road: When a Traffic Stop Becomes a Criminal Charge

Spring construction season ramps up in May along M-14, I-275, Ann Arbor Road, and Sheldon Road in and around Plymouth. With orange barrels come reduced speed limits, narrowed lanes, and a major increase in enforcement — including charges that can turn what looks like a routine traffic ticket into a criminal case.

Michigan's Construction Zone Penalties

Under MCL 257.601b, fines for moving violations are doubled in a construction zone when workers are present. That includes speeding, improper lane use, careless driving, and similar offenses.

Additionally, MCL 257.601c specifically addresses speeding in a work zone. Penalties scale with how far above the posted limit a driver is going, and a serious-injury or death-causing violation can be charged as a felony.

When a Ticket Becomes a Criminal Charge

A standard civil infraction speeding ticket is just a fine and points. But certain conduct in a work zone can move into criminal territory:

• Reckless driving under MCL 257.626 is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 93 days in jail, fines, six points, and a 90-day license suspension. Reckless driving requires "willful or wanton disregard" for safety.
• Careless driving under MCL 257.626b is a civil infraction with three points.
• Reckless driving causing serious impairment is a five-year felony.
• Reckless driving causing death is a 15-year felony.
• Speeding 25 mph or more over the limit can be charged under specific provisions and is sometimes paired with reckless driving allegations.

Driver's License Implications

A reckless driving conviction adds six points to your driving record and triggers a 90-day license suspension. Repeated serious violations within a short period can lead to additional Secretary of State sanctions, including license restrictions, additional tests, or revocation.

Where Plymouth-Area Cases Are Heard

• Tickets on M-14 and I-275 within Plymouth Township and Canton Township are handled by the 35th District Court in Plymouth.
• Ticket locations in Livonia go through the 16th District Court.
• Tickets in Westland are handled by the 18th District Court.
• Tickets in Wayne County felony cases are bound over to Wayne County Circuit Court.

Defending Against These Charges

Defense issues in work zone cases often include:

• Whether workers were actually present (required for doubled fines).
• Accuracy and calibration of the speed-measuring device (radar or laser).
• The officer's observations and certifications.
• Whether the conduct meets the legal definition of "reckless" — a high standard.

Call Boria Law Today

If you received a serious traffic citation, reckless driving charge, or were arrested following a construction zone incident, attorney Aaron J. Boria of Boria Law can help protect your record and your license.

Call (734) 453-7806 today for a free consultation.