Use of Radar Cameras In Arizona

If you drive through Arizona, you could find an unpleasant souvenir of your trip in your mailbox after you return home - a speeding ticket issued by a photo radar device installed on a number of the state’s freeways.

Unlike California, Arizona uses automated cameras to enforce speed limits. Twenty years ago, they were installed in Paradise Valley and several years later in the Scottsdale and Tempe areas.

In 2006, the program spread to Arizona’s freeways, initially on only a short stretch of roadway in Scottsdale. But late last year, the state installed 34 permanent speed cameras and deployed an additional 42 mobile speed cameras at other highway locations. According to AAA Arizona, 100 cameras were authorized in a last-minute deal to approve the state budget. The cameras were ordered to be installed by this year and are projected to generate $90 million in revenue.

The program has caused significant controversy. AAA Arizona has called for a comprehensive evaluation of the program and its impact on traffic safety. They have also sought standards that govern site selection so that safety and not revenue generation drives decisions and to assure that fines are used to improve traffic safety.

Regardless of how you feel about automated speed enforcement systems, we think that you should be prepared when you drive in Arizona so that you can protect yourself from that expensive surprise in the mail.

The Arizona Department of Public Safety provides a website identifying the locations of the cameras, how they work and other information about the program, including how to challenge a citation if you receive one. To check out camera locations before your trip, click here - http://photoenforcement.azdps.gov/

According to the website, speed camera systems issue tickets only when a motorist is driving at a speed of eleven (11) MPH or more over the posted speed limit at any location, except for school zones where a ticket will be issued for speeds of six (6) MPH or more over the posted speed limit. The site further notes that it takes a minimum of 7 days to process and mail the ticket.

If you plan to drive in Arizona, we encourage you to check out the state’s website and, as usual, drive carefully and obey all traffic laws.