LA's New Automated Camera System Acts Without Waiting for a Judge | Carscoops

      AB-645 Introduces Automated Speeding Tickets, Hefty Fines, and Potential License Suspensions in LA

      California will roll out automated ticketing in Los Angeles starting in 2026.

      Fines begin at $50 and escalate to $500 for severe infractions.

      Drivers risk having their licenses suspended without a hearing.

      Navigating Los Angeles roads is set to become even more challenging. This year, the city will launch up to 125 speed cameras. Coupled with recent changes to California state laws, it's clear that driving is now under intense scrutiny, especially given the alarming increase in fatal accidents in the state.

      Enacted in 2023, AB-645 permits cities like Los Angeles to deploy speed cameras. While San Francisco already operates a few, Glendale has nine, and both Oakland and Long Beach are looking to grow their programs, LA's initiative will dwarf the rest once fully operational.

      Automated Fines Ahead

      As reported by SecretLosAngeles, the cameras are part of a five-year Speed Safety System Pilot Program. Officials intend to focus on “high-risk areas,” such as school zones, parks, construction sites, senior centers, and busy commercial districts.

      The technology functions similarly to red-light cameras. A speeding vehicle is photographed, and a citation is sent to the registered owner—not necessarily the driver at that moment, but the individual listed on the registration.

      The ticketing system mirrors those in other states. Speeding by 11-15 mph over the limit triggers an automatic $50 fine, which doubles for speeds of 16-25 mph over the limit. Going 26-99 mph over the limit incurs a $200 penalty, and exceeding 100 mph results in a $500 fine. This is where additional recent California legislation comes into play.

      As previously noted, drivers caught going over 100 mph by the California Highway Patrol will have their citations sent directly to the DMV, regardless of their driving history.

      Furthermore, the DMV’s Driver Safety Branch can independently examine the case and impose penalties, which could include license suspension or revocation, even before a court hearing takes place.

      Increasing Speeds, Increasing Consequences

      State officials report that the CHP issues around 1,600 citations monthly for drivers surpassing 100 mph, amounting to over 18,000 cases in 2024 alone. The new system is designed to target these drivers more swiftly and stringently.

      This initiative arises as state data reveals a troubling rise in dangerous driving behaviors. Fatalities and serious injuries connected to speeding and aggressive driving have surged by 52 percent since 2010. It is hoped that these new measures will positively affect these statistics.

      Credit: City of San Francisco