System Analysis of Automated Speed Enforcement Implementation

NHTSA - Behavioral Safety Researchhttps://doi.org/10.21949/15258012016PDFTech ReportMiller, RichardOsberg, J. ScottRetting, RichardBallou, McKenzieAtkins, Randolph GM. Davis and CompanyUnited States. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Office of Behavioral Safety ResearchM. Davis and CompanyUnited StatesSpeedingAutomated enforcementTraffic violationsQuestionnairesTraffic safetySafety programsImplementationCountermeasuresDOT HS 812 257DTNH22-09-D-00136, TO#2Speeding is a major factor in a large proportion of traffic crashes, injuries, and fatalities in the United States. Automated Speed Enforcement (ASE) is one of many approaches shown to be effective in reducing speeding violations and crashes. However, despite the effectiveness of ASE, opposition to automated enforcement can make it difficult to establish and maintain these programs. In 2008 NHTSA and the Federal Highway Administration published the Speed Enforcement Camera Systems Operational Guidelines to assist State and local agencies in planing and operating ASE systems as a component of comprehensive speed management programs.Data on currently operating and recently discontinued ASE programs in the United States were collected over a 6-month period through questionnaires, phone calls, e-mails, and site visits. The programs were compared to critical elements of the NHTSA Guidelines. Although 63 percent of the respondents were not aware of the NHTSA Guidelines, the programs were consistent with the guidelines on many specific issues. Enabling legislation and technologies varied greatly by State and by agency, and appeared to have large effects on how programs were operated. There were also striking differences in ASE program administration between States implementing ASE prior to 2008, when the NHTSA Guidelines were published, and those beginning more recently.129