IIHS: U.S. States Automated Enforcement Laws
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May 2009
Automated enforcement refers to the use of technology to enforce traffic safety laws. Although many jurisdictions that use automated enforcement are in states that have laws authorizing its use, not all states where automated enforcement is in use have such laws, nor are they always necessary. Most automated enforcement programs and laws are for red light violations; however, the use of automated enforcement for speed is increasing, and a few jurisdictions use automated enforcement for other violations such as failing to pay a toll and disobeying a railroad crossing signal. In states that have automated enforcement laws, the laws vary from state to state; some authorize enforcement statewide, whereas others permit use only in specified communities.
Red light camera systems are triggered when a vehicle enters an intersection after the light has been red for a predetermined time. A recent Institute review of red light camera studies around the world, including several by the Institute, concluded that cameras reduce red light violations by 40-50 percent and reduce injury crashes by 25-30 percent. One study found a reduction of 68 percent in front to side impact injury crashes, the kind of crashes most related to red light running. See communities with red light cameras
Automated speed enforcement systems are triggered when a vehicle exceeding the speed limit by a predetermined amount is observed. A 2003 Institute study showed that average speeds declined 14 percent within 6 months of implementing speed cameras in the District of Columbia. Moreover, the proportion of vehicles exceeding the speed limit by more than 10 mph declined 82 percent. See communities with speed cameras
A few jurisdictions treat automated enforcement citations just like parking tickets in that the registered owner is liable. Similarly, just as parking tickets do not result in points or are not recorded on a driver’s record, many jurisdictions do not assess points or make a record of automated enforcement citations. Automated enforcement laws associated with moving violations are summarized in the following (click on your state) .