Bill > SB1610

This bill, titled the Oklahoma Work Zone Safety and Contractor Protection Act, aims to enhance safety in roadway construction zones and protect contractors by implementing several key provisions. It establishes a demonstration program for automated work zone speed enforcement systems, which use radar or lidar to detect speeding vehicles and capture license plate images for civil enforcement, with fines varying based on the violation and a portion of collected funds going to a Work Zone Safety Revolving Fund. The bill also allows contractors to use flashing red and blue lights on work vehicles for warning purposes and permits temporary detours onto municipal or county roads when necessary for safety. Crucially, it provides contractors and subcontractors with immunity from liability for injuries or damages occurring in work zones if they are in compliance with approved contract documents and applicable standards, and also prevents recovery of damages from contractors if the driver involved in a crash was impaired by alcohol or controlled substances. Furthermore, contractors are designated as employees of the state or political subdivision for the purposes of civil actions related to work zone operations, granting them similar immunities and liability limitations as governmental entities, except in cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct. The bill also clarifies definitions within the Governmental Tort Claims Act to include contractors and subcontractors in roadway work zone operations as employees for certain purposes.

Transportation and Infrastructure

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=sb1610&Session=2600