How Do You Drive Through a Construction Zone in Ontario?
In Ontario construction zones, slow down to the posted speed (usually 60 km/h), stay alert for workers and equipment, and be prepared to stop. Fines for speeding are doubled in construction zones, and if workers are present, additional minimums apply. Merge early and follow all posted signs.
Key Facts
- Slow down before entering the zone, not after
- Watch for uneven pavement, gravel, and lane changes
- Keep a 3-second following distance instead of the usual 2
- Obey flaggers as you would a traffic light
- Expect the unexpected: workers, equipment, and lane shifts
In this article
Speed Limits in Construction Zones
When you see orange construction signs, reduce your speed to the posted construction zone limit, which is typically 60 km/h but can vary. The reduced limit applies whether or not you can see workers. You must obey the construction zone speed until you pass the end-of-construction sign. Do not speed back up the moment you think the zone is ending.
Doubled Fines for Speeding
Speeding fines are automatically doubled in construction zones. For example, if a speeding ticket normally carries a $100 fine, it becomes $200 in a construction zone. This applies even if no workers are present at the time.
Worker-Present Minimum Fines
When highway construction workers are present and at risk, minimum fines apply regardless of how far over the limit you are driving.
| Offence | Minimum Fine |
|---|---|
| Speeding in construction zone (workers present) | $150 minimum (first offence), up to $1,000 |
| Failing to obey construction zone signs | Fine varies; doubled in construction zones |
| Stunt driving (50+ km/h over in construction zone) | Immediate 30-day roadside suspension + vehicle impounded |
Merging and Lane Reductions
Construction zones often reduce lanes. When a lane is closed ahead, merge as soon as it is safe rather than driving to the merge point and forcing your way in. However, zipper merging (using both lanes until the merge point, then alternating) is also legal and actually reduces congestion. Follow the signs and be courteous to other drivers.
Additional Safety Tips
Stay alert for flaggers, who have the same legal authority as traffic signals. You must obey a flagger's directions. Keep extra following distance from the vehicle ahead since debris, uneven pavement, or sudden stops are common in construction zones. Avoid distractions: fines for distracted driving also double in construction zones.
- Slow down before entering the zone, not after
- Watch for uneven pavement, gravel, and lane changes
- Keep a 3-second following distance instead of the usual 2
- Obey flaggers as you would a traffic light
- Expect the unexpected: workers, equipment, and lane shifts
Related Questions
What Is the Speed Limit on Highways in Ontario?
The standard speed limit on Ontario highways is 100 km/h, with some corridors posted at 110 km/h. Within cities and towns it is 50 km/h, and on rural roads 80 km/h. Always follow posted signs, which override default limits.
Read answerHow Many Demerit Points Do You Get for Speeding in Ontario?
Demerit points for speeding in Ontario depend on how far over the limit you are driving: 0 points for 1-15 km/h over, 3 points for 16-29 km/h over, 4 points for 30-49 km/h over, and 6 points for 50 km/h or more over. Exceeding by 50 km/h also triggers a stunt driving charge.
Read answerWhat Is Stunt Driving in Ontario?
Stunt driving in Ontario is a serious traffic offence that includes driving 50 km/h or more over the posted speed limit, racing other vehicles, performing stunts, and several other dangerous driving behaviours. It triggers an immediate 30-day roadside licence suspension and 14-day vehicle impoundment on the spot.
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