Motorists are spending more time in their vehicles and are traveling farther distances. That makes managing the speeds on the roadways more important than ever – since speeding is a contributing factor in many collisions.

Traffic cameras have shown great potential in reducing the likelihood of crashes resulting from speeding. They have received tremendous support and have proven effective in studies. One preliminary study conducted by Dr. Simon Washington, traffic systems analyst at Arizona State University, concluded that the numbers of injury crashes related to speeding were significantly reduced when the cameras were deployed.

In Arizona, the success of traffic cameras in reducing crashes has led Gov. Napolitano to require DPS to expand the program. DPS will use the traffic cameras to assist officers in reducing crashes in areas that have a justified need, such as freeway interchanges and constructions zones. The traffic cameras will include mobile and stationary units on roadways that are patrolled by the state.