More speed enforcement cameras, automated flagger devices coming to work zones to enhance highway safety
FRANKFORT, Ky. (Oct. 5, 2026) – Team Kentucky reminds drivers traveling through work zones to watch for highway crews, obey posted speed limits and follow traffic control devices to keep Kentucky roadways safe for everyone as work zone crashes are on the rise compared to this time last year. To prevent crashes and serious injuries during the still active construction season, more speed enforcement cameras and automated flagger devices will be present in work zones to enhance safety for drivers and workers.
The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) deployed 50 additional Automated Flagger Assistance Devices (AFADs) statewide this summer to safely direct traffic and reduce worker hazards, and motorists should give the devices the same respect they give human flaggers by following their directions. Seven more speed enforcement cameras will also be placed in work zones across the state this year to encourage safe driving speeds where workers are present.
“Kentuckians ought to look out for each other everywhere, including on our roads,” said Gov. Andy Beshear. “Our transportation teams are using proven tools to make work zones safer for those building or driving on our roads, but it still requires every driver makes smart choices every time they’re behind the wheel.”
“We take work zone safety seriously and are committed to using every method available to reduce collisions, save lives and improve safety for Kentucky families who rely on our roads,” said Transportation Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Goodman. “Every speed camera, every flagger and flagging device, and every sign in a work zone exists for one reason – to get workers and drivers home safely at the end of every day.”
Automated Flagging Assistance Devices (AFAD)
A total of 120 AFADs are now available in all 12 KYTC highway districts to minimize risks and improve safety. These automated flagger devices are portable and feature a mechanical stop arm and two signal lights that are controlled by a trained operator to safely manage traffic flow in work zones and minimize risks to workers. They are commonly used on two-lane roads where lanes are temporarily reduced. Drivers should treat AFAD signals the same as a human flagger – coming to a complete stop when indicated by a red light and down stop arm and proceeding slowly only when signaled by a yellow light as the stop arm is raised.
Ignoring or disobeying AFADs in work zones may result in legal consequences as set out in Chapter 189 of the Kentucky Revised Statutes and could include fines, driver’s license revocation and, in some circumstances, criminal charges.
So far this year, 64 work zone incidents occurred due to motorists disregarding flaggers and AFADs, and 50% of those violations resulted in criminal charges against the driver while another 38% are pending.
Speed Enforcement Cameras
At the end of September 2025, KYTC announced the state’s first use of camera assisted speed enforcement. Currently, five cameras are already being used in five highway work zones on I-64 in Shelby County, I-75 in Laurel and Whitley counties, I-24 in Christian County, I-71 near the Carroll-Gallatin County line, and on I-64 in Bath County. Cameras are being deployed in an additional seven locations this fall.
“The highway construction industry greatly appreciates KYTC’s additional investment in speed cameras to keep highway construction workers and the traveling public safe in our work zones,” said Chad LaRue, Executive Director of the Kentucky Association of Highway Contractors. “They are a critical tool to improve speed limit compliance by the traveling public.”
The speed enforcement cameras do not send automated tickets through the mail. Instead, they are monitored by law enforcement officers stationed near the work zone, who can then pull over motorists exceeding the posted work zone speed limit. Signs and flashing lights provide warning to passing motorists when they’re in operation.
“Every year, we lose too many people on our roadways because of crashes that could have been prevented,” said Kentucky State Police Major Eric Walker. “We’re going to be out there watching, and we’re going to enforce this law. At the end of the day, we’re doing this because we want to save lives here in Kentucky.”
Work Zone Driving Tips
To help keep everyone safe in Kentucky’s highway work zones, KYTC encourages all drivers to follow these tips:
- Put the phone down – no life is worth a text or call
- Slow down – obey posted work zone speed limits
- Be alert – be prepared for sudden lane shifts and stopped traffic
- Watch for workers – crews and equipment may be entering or exiting the roadway at any time
- Obey flaggers/AFAD signals – obey all commands; stop and go only when signaled
- Buckle up – every trip, every time
- Be patient – a few extra minutes is worth a lifetime for the workers
To stay up to date on active work zones and other traffic information, visit goky.ky.gov.
About the Author
