Police Clock Audi Going 77 in a 55 MPH Highway 169 Construction Zone

Hopkins police doing extra enforcement in the new construction zone on Highway 169 said "many drivers" were exceeding the speed limit Tuesday, some by 20 mph. "Many others have been stopped for stop sign violations."

Police said they issued a citation to an Audi driver for going 77 mph in the 55 mph construction zone.

"We will be out keeping these workers safe along with all of the other motorists," police said on Facebook. "Please pay attention to your speed and all of the signs. We will be doing extra enforcement in the area and ensuring the impacted neighborhoods are kept safe from vehicles speeding through their neighborhood to avoid the closure."

Speed limit in work zone when workers present

Speeding is generally a petty misdemeanor in Minnesota, carrying a base fine that normally ranges from $40 to $150, and with no prison sentence. The fine is $300 for a violation in a work zone. The fine is doubled if the violation

(1) occurs in a school zone

(2) involves speeds of 20 m.p.h. or more above the posted limit, or

(3) occurs when passing a parked emergency vehicle with flashing lights.

If a speeding violation is committed in a manner that endangers persons or property, it can be charged as a misdemeanor. In addition to the base fine, a $75 court surcharge is imposed for speeding convictions and there can be a law library fee.

Minnesota does not use a point system that triggers removal of driving privileges. However, multiple speeding or other traffic violations within a year can lead to loss of a license.

Image via Hopkins Police Department