California is grappling with a serious issue: an increasing number of deaths due to reckless driving. To address this, the state has introduced a new plan – speed cameras. Recently, a law was signed into effect by Governor Gavin Newsom that allows several cities, including Los Angeles, San Jose, Oakland, Glendale, Long Beach and San Francisco, to install these cameras to promote road safety.
The law, which will take effect in 2024, aims to prevent accidents in high-risk areas. These include schools, streets with a high incidence of injuries and deaths, and areas known for street racing.
Could speed cameras be the solution?
Los Angeles recorded a high of 312 fatalities in 2022. According to a report from Streets Are For Everyone, speed has been the single largest factor in all traffic crashes in Los Angeles every year since at least 2011. To deter people from speeding and making the roads safer for everyone, using speed cameras might just be the solution.
So, how do these speed cameras work? If a vehicle is driving too fast, the camera snaps a picture. For instance, once a driver exceeds the posted speed limit by 11 mph or more, they will automatically be issued a ticket by the system, which then mails the speeding ticket to the vehicle’s registered owner.
What are the penalties for speeding?
Under the new law, the penalties for speeding start with warnings for the first two months. After that, drivers going 11 to 15 mph over the speed limit will receive citations. Civil penalties for exceeding the speed limit are as follows:
- $50 for going over 11 mph
- $100 for 16 mph
- $200 for 26 mph
- A hefty $500 for more than 100 mph
Significant fines like these could deter drivers from ignoring speed limits. Additionally, any extra revenue generated would be invested in traffic-related improvements in the cities where the cameras are installed, with an emphasis on safety measures.
Safer California roads
With the installation of speed cameras, California aims to take a stand against reckless driving and the tragic accidents it causes. This law signifies a dedicated effort to save lives and manage the risk posed by those who drive recklessly fast. It’s a significant step toward making roads safer for everyone.
