Automated speed enforcement cameras

Program overview

  • Automated speed enforcement cameras include radar and laser devices that are permanently placed in a location, often on existing traffic lights or signs
  • Cameras are used to penalize speed violations and automatically generate tickets for offenders
  • Fines and penalties linked to automated speed enforcement cameras range from $100 to $1,000. Higher fines are generally associated with higher-risk areas, like areas around schools
  • In 2008, speeding was a contributing factor in 31 percent of all fatal car crashes and associated with more than 11,000 fatalities
  • The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that speeding-related crashes cost more than $40 billion every year
Issue Areas
Health and well-being
Justice and public safety
Outcomes
Supportive neighborhoods
Strategies
Traffic and street safety improvements
Target Population
Community-wide
Cost per Participant
Not available

Evidence and impacts

Proven

Ranked as having the highest level of evidence by County Health Rankings and Roadmaps

  • Reduced fatal and non-fatal injuries from car accidents
  • Reduced average traffic speed
  • Reduced number of car crashes
  • Estimated 20-25% reduction in crashes that result in injury

Best practices in implementation

  • Note: This content is under review
  • Legislation is generally required to implement automated speed cameras on city streets.
  • Once legislation has passed, automated enforcement programs generally require four to six months to plan, publicize, and implement.
  • Work with community members to identify high-risk areas and ensure widespread knowledge of speed camera implementation.
  • It is important to ensure that using this technology is permitted by state government, as regulations around automated equipment vary from state to state.

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