The New York City Department of Transportation (NYC DOT) has reported a 94% decrease in speeding violations at locations equipped with speed cameras since the program’s inception in 2014. The report also indicates a 14% reduction in traffic injuries and fatalities at sites where cameras were installed in 2022, compared to areas without such devices.
Speeding contributes to approximately 25% of traffic fatalities in New York City annually. From 2021 to 2023, over 200 lives were lost in crashes where speeding was a significant factor.
The report highlights that 74% of vehicles receiving violations accumulate no more than one or two per year, suggesting that the program effectively encourages safer driving habits. However, more than 12,000 drivers received over 20 violations in 2023. These repeat offenders are five times more likely to be involved in crashes resulting in death or critical injury compared to the average driver.
The speed camera program is set to expire this year unless reauthorized by the state legislature during the current session. NYC DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez emphasized the importance of the program, stating, “It isn’t a coincidence that locations with speed cameras have seen massive reductions in speeding, fewer deaths, and fewer injuries. We look forward to working with our partners in Albany this session to renew a critical law that allows us to use these life-saving tools.”
Despite the program’s success, some residents have expressed opposition. In Staten Island, drivers have reportedly covered speed cameras with fake flowers to obstruct their function and avoid fines. The NYC DOT condemned these actions, emphasizing their threat to public safety. The community remains divided, with some viewing the act as a peaceful protest against perceived revenue-generating measures, while others consider it vandalism.
As of now, New York City operates over 2,200 speed cameras in 750 school speed zones citywide, making it the largest program of its kind in the nation.
