Automated Speed Enforcement Launches Statewide In Pennsylvania

PENNSYLVANIA — Pennsylvania will soon launch the use of automated cameras to enforce speeding in work zones across the state.

The plan, which was announced in Nov. 2019 and has been in a trial "pre-enforcement" phase the last 60 days, begins on March 9.

Officials hope the program helps change driver behavior on a larger scale. Cameras will only detect speeders in works zones who are going 11 miles per hour or more above the posted limit.

“Through the Automated Work Zone Speed Enforcement program, we are urging motorists to slow down and pay attention while driving, especially through work zones where roadway conditions can change on a daily basis," acting PennDOT Secretary Yassmin Gramian said in a statement. "In 2018, 23 motorists were killed in a Pennsylvania work zone. Ultimately, this program is not about issuing violations, it’s about saving lives."

Not everyone agrees with the cameras effectiveness, necessity, or fairness, however. The National Motorists Association, which staunchly opposes the use of the technology, says that cameras are inaccurate, and often do not provide a clear image of the offending vehicle.

"Tests done by the University of Virginia found that fewer than three percent of the photos taken of vehicles on Interstate-type roads provided a clear image of a single vehicle, the license plate number and the driver," the Association states on their website. "Photo radar should not be used on high-speed, multi-lane highways. Yet, some greedy cities still use it on these types of roads."

They also argue that there is little evidence that cameras improve safety, and that automated enforcement is often employed in areas with under-posted speed limits.

“While there can be fines assessed, the AWZSE program’s goal is not to generate revenue," PA Turnpike CEO Mark Compton said in a statement. "The goal is to build awareness and most importantly, to change unsafe driving behaviors."

Violations will begin with a warning letter for the first offense, a $75 fine for the second, and a $150 fine for the third and subsequent offenses. No driver's license points will be assessed.

A total of 45 workers have been killed in accidents on the Pennsylvania Turnpike since 1945.