NCJ Number
176304
Date Published
1996
Length
70 pages
Annotation
This is a cost benefit analysis of traffic light and speed cameras.
Abstract
The use of both traffic light and speed cameras generated substantial net benefits. For speed cameras, the net benefit was five times the initial investment after 1 year and more than 25 times after 5 years. Fine income covered operational costs in all but one area studied. For traffic light cameras, seven of the 10 forces studied generated a net benefit after 1 year. Only one force did not "move into benefit" after 5 years and this was because of a significant investment in processing technology. The "pay back" period for this technology was fairly short and implementation led to a reduction in the number of road traffic accidents at camera sites. Local consultation should cover siting, signing and publicity, operation and enforcement. The report gives details on the role of camera technology, good practice, funding responsibilities and future developments. Figure, tables, references, appendixes