Speed Demon, beware: California is serious about slowing you down. Thanks to Congressional Bill 645, which was signed into law last fall but fell into action this year, some cities across the state will soon begin issuing speeding tickets using automatic speed cameras.
The pilot program will provide green light to install speed safety systems in problem zones in Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Jose, Oakland, Long Beach and Glendale. Consider a “safety corridor” where crashes are commonplace, streets famous for their drag racing.
San Francisco first left the gate and activated 33 cameras earlier this spring. The rest is expected to continue, with Los Angeles expected to roll out its own cameras in 2026. However, there will not be any flashing lights in the back view. These cameras operate quietly, snapping license plates and sending tickets automatically.
If you catch yourself driving more than 11 mph above the limit, prepare to pay. The penalty starts at $50 and expands to $500 for people who are clocked at over 100 mph. The good news is that the first 60 days after the camera gets live is a grace period, and violators will only receive warning notifications. Additionally, if you are struggling financially, the law requires cities to offer fine reductions, payment plans and even community service options.
To prevent sleazy enforcement, the law requires public information blitz at least 30 days before the camera is turned on, including signs, media alerts, and online maps of camera locations. Unlike red light cameras, these cameras only capture the license plate at the rear. There are no mug shots here.
Officials hope that the program will improve safety while avoiding stock concerns related to traditional traffic stops. While cities will need to submit reports analysing how cameras affect public safety and neighbouring economies, states are betting on technology to slow traffic without bias.
Another: If you’re being pulled on a California highway, don’t expect to blame the speed cam. The law applies only to local streets, not highways or state routes.
Therefore, check the speed before hitting the gas. These six California cities can be mailed tickets:
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