Camera Speeding Tickets In New York?

While popular in Europe, there are only two states that currently use them. Arizona was the first to install speed cameras in June 2008 and Maryland as of May 2009. Arizona’s program is state-wide and, as reported by the USA Today, resulted in 150,000 camera speeding tickets being issued and over $4 million in fines. Maryland allows speed cameras on highway work zones and within 1/2 mile of schools, and a Governor’s spokesperson claims that it has already lowered accident rates and injuries. Hawaii, San Jose, CA and southern Florida unsuccessfully tried to implement their own speed cameras but were shut down by legal challenges. Also, 13 have specific laws specifically prohibiting speeding cameras.

While speeding cameras with a display can be found throughout New York, they do not directly result the issuance of a New York speeding ticket. They are more advisory and work well to slow down motorists. However, with the proliferation of red light cameras and the substantial revenue which they generate for the State’s coffers, New York politicians are likely licking their lips at the prospect of another way to “tax” New York motorists. It, therefore, would not surprise me if New York becomes the third state to authorize a speeding camera system.