Despite a remarkable 94% decrease in speeding at locations with speed cameras in New York City, the future of the program isn't secure without legislative reauthorization. The Department of Transportation is urging state legislators to continue support for the program, emphasizing its role in reducing traffic fatalities linked to speeding. Past attempts at reauthorization have faced political challenges, making the situation precarious. While the cameras have proven effective in decreasing reckless driving and saving lives, technical limitations mean they still miss numerous speeding incidents due to challenges reading certain plates.
Concern over reauthorization of the nearly 11-year-old "pilot" program was top of mind for Department of Transportation Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez, whose prepared statement upon the release of the new report specifically signaled that help is needed in the state capital.
"One in four traffic fatalities involves speeding, and speed cameras are one of the most effective tools we have to change reckless driver behavior and prevent tragedies from happening," Rodriguez said.
It isn't a coincidence that locations with speed cameras have seen massive reductions in speeding, fewer deaths, and fewer injuries.
Reauthorization is not a given and, indeed, has been a political football and legislative swap meet every time the issue has come up.
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