San Francisco's Speed Cameras are Subtly Converting Warnings into Actual Fines | Carscoops

      Authorities indicate that this program is already having a positive effect and reducing speeds.

      6 hours ago

      by Stephen Rivers

      San Francisco has introduced 33 speed cameras that now issue actual tickets for violations.

      During the trial phase, these cameras sent out 350,000 warnings and decreased speeding by 30%.

      Fines start at $50 for drivers exceeding the speed limit by 11 mph or more.

      Drivers in San Francisco now have 33 fresh reasons to reduce their speed. The city has activated speed cameras throughout various neighborhoods, and they are not merely decorative; real citations are being issued. This initiative aims to enhance safety in the city following a two-month trial phase, during which over 350,000 warnings were distributed by the speed cameras.

      These are the first speed cameras in California. Drivers recorded going 11 mph (18 km/h) above the limit will receive a $50 fine, while those going 16 mph (26 km/h) over will face a $100 fine. A $200 fine applies to anyone exceeding the limit by 26 mph (42 km/h), and drivers reaching speeds of 100 mph (161 km/h) or more can expect a $500 ticket.

      Adjusted fines are available for low-income drivers, with the option to perform community service instead of paying the fine.

      A Safer City for Everyone

      “Whether you walk, bike, take Muni, or drive, you should be able to reach your destination safely in San Francisco,” stated Mayor Lurie. “Speed cameras are effective in keeping people safe on the streets, and we are already observing positive outcomes from the warning phase: Fewer notices are being issued, and drivers are maintaining safer speeds. As children return to school and more individuals continue to commute to work, we are utilizing this new technology to enhance safety for our children, seniors, and the entire community.”

      The city has taken nearly every possible measure to assist residents in avoiding tickets, short of not installing the cameras at all. In addition to the trial phase, the city has provided a map that indicates the location of each camera. Furthermore, there is an interactive online map that allows anyone to access information about camera data, future sites, and more.

      Drivers Are Slowing Down

      Thus far, it seems that the camera system is successfully reducing driver speeds. Over 70 percent of those who received one speeding warning did not receive a second. Overall, speeding incidents dropped by more than 30 percent between the first and last week of the trial phase across all camera locations, with significant reductions of 40 percent in one high-traffic area and 63 percent in another.

      Several other states with speed cameras have experienced significant revenue increases as a result. In some regions, drivers with particularly poor records appear to avoid paying fines altogether, while still retaining their driving privileges.

      According to the SF Chronicle, some cameras recorded over 850 speeders per day at times during the trial phase.

      Credit: KRON 4