San Francisco Introduces California's Initial Fixed Speed Cameras, Fines Adjusted Based on Income | Carscoops

      Fines begin at $50 for drivers caught speeding between 11-15 mph over the limit after the two-month grace period ends.

      San Francisco’s speed cameras will issue fines to those exceeding the speed limit by 11 mph.

      Low-income individuals may qualify for half-price fines for speeding, based on their household income.

      Other cities in California might implement similar speed cameras if the initiative proves successful.

      In a city renowned for its steep hills, pricey coffee, and constant tech innovations, San Francisco is testing a new approach to traffic enforcement. It is the first city in California to set up fixed-speed cameras at 33 locations across the city. As expected, this initiative is generating some debate, but local officials are optimistic that the cameras will help reduce accidents and injuries. For now, the cameras are confined to school zones and high-injury corridors, where speeding poses the greatest risks.

      The speed cameras were activated last Thursday and will be used for an initial two-month trial. After this period, local drivers who violate the speed limit will begin receiving fines in the mail. The locations of the speed cameras have been made public, so residents should quickly learn where they are situated.

      Fines are based on speed and income.

      Fines will only be issued if a driver exceeds the speed limit by at least 11 mph. A fine of $50 will be imposed for speeds between 11-15 mph over the limit. The penalty increases to $100 for 16-25 mph over the limit, $200 for 26 mph or more, and $500 for any vehicle traveling at 100 mph or higher within the city.

      Importantly, these fines are civil penalties, meaning there are no points added to the driver’s license. Low-income drivers can receive a 50% discount if they live alone and have an annual income below $30,120. The income thresholds vary according to household size.

      Income Guidelines for Low-Income Discounts

      According to the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA), as many as 42,000 citations could be issued daily. In a discussion with ABC7 News, SFMTA transportation director Julie Kirschbaum mentioned that warning signs will be posted at every intersection with a speed camera, and other cities throughout California may adopt speed cameras in the future.

      Local advocacy group Walk SF reported that 42 people lost their lives in traffic accidents in San Francisco last year and is confident that the cameras will encourage drivers to slow down.

      “Speed cameras influence behavior, leading to fewer crashes,” said Walk SF communications director Marta Lindsey. “New York City has seen significant improvements in behavior change, with very few individuals receiving second tickets, indicating that people learn quickly.”