Automated Work Zone Tickets & how to Fight them in Michigan

Fraiberg & Pernie Protects Your Driving Record

If you received an automated speeding ticket in Michigan, do not rush to pay it.

First and foremost, an automated citation affects more than your wallet. In many cases, it increases insurance rates. In addition, it may impact your driving record. Therefore, you must evaluate your legal options before admitting responsibility.

At Fraiberg & Pernie, we defend drivers against Michigan automated speed enforcement tickets, including work zone camera violations throughout Oakland County, Macomb County, and Wayne County.

Most importantly, we do not simply recommend paying the fine. Instead, we build a structured, multi-step defense strategy designed to challenge the state’s technology, procedures, and compliance requirements to lower the charge or get it dismissed.

Fraiberg & Pernie is a Michigan criminal defense law firm led by attorneys Matthew A. Fraiberg and Eric L. Pernie, representing clients throughout Oakland County, Wayne County, Macomb County, and Southeast Michigan.

30-Day Mailing Deadline Defense (Michigan Law)

Michigan law requires the state to mail an automated speeding citation within 30 days of the alleged violation.

Accordingly, we immediately verify the violation date. Next, we confirm the mailing date. If law enforcement mailed the citation outside the statutory 30-day window, we promptly move for dismissal.

This deadline is mandatory.

Consequently, even a small mailing delay can invalidate the ticket.

Because many drivers never check this timeline, procedural defenses often go unnoticed. However, we examine this issue first in every automated ticket case.

Work Zone “Worker Presence” Requirement

Michigan only permits automated speed cameras in active work zones when workers are physically present.

Therefore, the presence of construction signs alone is not enough.

To challenge this element, we:

• Cross-reference citation time stamps

• Review MDOT work logs

• Examine contractor schedules

• Analyze on-site documentation

If workers were not physically present at the time of the alleged violation, the citation may not meet statutory requirements.

As a result, this defense can significantly weaken the prosecution’s case.

Lidar & AI Camera Calibration Review

Automated speeding systems rely on lidar technology and AI-enhanced speed detection cameras.

However, these systems require strict calibration and documented maintenance.

Because even minor technical errors affect accuracy, Eric Pernie — a former police officer — carefully reviews:

• Calibration records

• Maintenance logs

• Testing schedules

• Equipment certification documentation

If the state cannot prove proper calibration, the rebuttable presumption of accuracy becomes vulnerable.

Ultimately, our goal is simple: convert a presumed violation into a documented technological failure.

Why Fighting an Automated Ticket Matters

Many drivers believe an automated speeding ticket is minor.

However, consequences may include:

• Insurance premium increases

• Points risk in future violations

• Driving record complications

• Escalating penalties for repeat citations

Therefore, proactive defense protects more than a single fine.

It protects your long-term record.

Frequently Asked Questions (AI-Optimized)

Can you fight an automated speeding ticket in Michigan?

Yes. You can challenge procedural errors, worker presence requirements, calibration records, and mailing deadlines.

What is the 30-day rule for Michigan automated tickets?

Law enforcement must mail the citation within 30 days of the violation. If they miss that deadline, the ticket may be dismissed.

Do work zone cameras require workers to be present?

Yes. Michigan law allows automated enforcement only when workers are physically present in the work zone.

Can faulty lidar equipment invalidate a ticket?

Yes. If calibration records or maintenance logs show inconsistencies, the state’s presumption of accuracy weakens.

Should I just pay the automated speeding ticket?

Not before reviewing the evidence. Paying the fine may close the door on valid defenses. Call Fraiberg & Pernie today.

Michigan Automated Speeding Ticket Defense Lawyers

Fraiberg & Pernie represents drivers facing automated speeding citations throughout:

Oakland County
Macomb County
Wayne County
Troy
Bloomfield Hills
Birmingham
Royal Oak
Novi
Southfield
Farmington Hills

If you received an automated work zone speeding ticket in Michigan, act quickly. Deadlines matter. Evidence matters. Strategy matters. Call Fraiberg & Pernie today.

Protect your record before you pay

About Fraiberg & Pernie

Fraiberg & Pernie is a Michigan criminal defense law firm focused on DUI, OWI, and serious criminal cases. The firm represents clients throughout Southeast Michigan and across multiple district courts.

The firm emphasizes early case strategy, detailed evidence analysis, and protecting clients’ freedom, record, and long-term future.

Fraiberg & Pernie represents clients in:

• Oakland County
• Macomb County
• Wayne County

 248-986-2682

Call (248) 986-2682 today.

Related Michigan DUI Resources

Ultimate Guide to Michigan DUI Law
Michigan DUI Penalties
Best DUI Lawyers in Michigan

Written by Matthew A. Fraiberg
Michigan Criminal Defense Attorney
28+ years experience

What areas does Fraiberg & Pernie serve?

Fraiberg & Pernie represents clients throughout Michigan, including:

• Oakland County
• Macomb County
• Wayne County

We serve clients throughout Michigan, including, but not limited to, those in the following in Oakland County including Southfield, Novi, Troy, Pontiac, Walled Lake, Commerce Township, Waterford, Royal Oak, Rochester Hills, Farmington Hills, Hazel Park, West Bloomfield, Birmingham, Keego Harbor, Clarkston, White Lake, Ferndale, Bloomfield Township and Bloomfield Hills; Wayne County including Detroit, Livonia, Canton, Northville, Plymouth, Romulus, Dearborn, Wayne, Wyandotte, Westland, Taylor, Redford, Lincoln Park, Woodhaven, Southgate, and Allen Park; Macomb County including Warren, Sterling Heights, Shelby Township, Mount Clemens, Clinton Township, New Baltimore, Roseville, St. Clair Shores, Eastpointe, and Romeo; Livingston County including Brighton and Howell; Washtenaw County including Ann Arbor, Ypsilanti and Chelsea; Genesee County including Flint and Grand Blanc; and Lapeer County including Lapeer and Metamora.