Almost one in three speed in works zones

Almost a third of Queensland drivers speed through roadwork zones, largely to keep up with other lead-footed motorists, a new survey has found.

An RACQ poll of more than 500 drivers found 29 per cent were guilty of putting the foot down in works zones.

Most cited the need to keep up with surrounding cars as the main reason for zipping through reduced areas.

"This is dangerous in itself as motorists who feel pressured to travel above the speed limit can be more distracted in their driving," RACQ spokesman Steve Spalding said.

Simply not knowing the limit was changed, or thinking it had been set too low, were other reasons cited for speeding.

But Mr Spalding said ignoring the limit put construction workers and other motorists at risk.

"While it can be exasperating for motorists to deal with reduced speed limits at roadworks sites, it's vital to remember lower limits are there for a reason," he said.