Speed Cameras
Purpose 
Increase road safety and reduce serious injuries and fatalities caused by speeding.
Description
Speed safety cameras are a type of automated enforcement technology that detect and record images of vehicles traveling faster than the posted speed limit. The footage is then reviewed by Arlington County Police Department (ACPD) to issue a citation for the violation. The goal of speed safety cameras is to provide a method of automated safety enforcement that deters speeding and improves safety on roads
Safety Benefits
- Reduce speeding.
- Reduce speeding-related crashes.
Street Types and Context
Applicable Street Types
Arterial streets: however, speed safety cameras may only be placed in designated school zones or highway work zones by Virginia State law and Arlington County Code.
Other Location Guidance
- Crash, speed, and ticket data can be factors in assessing and identifying locations for automated safety enforcement.
Primary User Groups
Key Implementation Considerations
- Install signage warning drivers in advance of the first speed camera on a corridor.
- School zone speed safety cameras must be placed in sight of a school beacon to confirm when the school zone speed limits are in effect.
Expected Crash Reduction
Speed safety cameras have been found to reduce injury crashes 18.5 to 27.5% (Li et al. 2013).
Cost
Speed safety cameras require a monthly operational fee. Additionally, a law enforcement officer must review footage to issue citations. Revenue collected from safety camera ticket fines is directed into the County’s general fund.
Timeline
One to three or more years, depending on complexity.
References