Alright, so let’s dive into this article about speeding and the Washington Department of Transportation’s (WSDOT) new pilot program using speed cameras in a different way. The program aims to send “courtesy notices” to drivers caught speeding, without issuing fines. The cameras have been installed in two locations with a history of serious and fatal high-speed crashes: one on I-5 southbound between Bow Hill Road and Cook Road in Skagit County, and one on I-90 eastbound by Liberty Lake outside of Spokane. Since the beginning of April, around 8,300 drivers have received these notices in the mail as a reminder to slow down.
The program, set to run through June, has already tracked 47 drivers going over 100 mph in just one month. The notices don’t specify the exact speed of the vehicle at the time of recording but include a list of fines based on the speed limit exceeded. The fines range from $135 for 6-10 mph over the limit to $432 for traveling more than 40 over. While the goal of the program remains unclear, it seems to be a data collection exercise more than a deterrent for speeding. Whether this approach will actually influence driver behavior remains to be seen once WSDOT analyzes the data.
Maybe it’s just me, but I’m not really sure why this matters, but the idea of sending friendly reminders to speeders instead of fines seems a bit optimistic. Speeders are already aware of the speed limits but choose to ignore them. The letter may communicate that authorities are keeping an eye on these dangerous stretches of road, potentially leading to future fines for infractions. It’s hard to say if this experiment will have any real impact on Washington drivers until the program concludes and the data is reviewed. Have you ever heard of a similar speed camera warning-by-mail initiative in your area? If so, what was the outcome?
Alright, so that’s the deal with the WSDOT’s new speed camera program. Whether it’s actually effective in reducing speeding remains uncertain, but at least they’re trying something different. The program will continue through June, after which the department will evaluate its success. In the meantime, drivers in Washington might want to keep an eye out for those courtesy notices in the mail and maybe think twice before hitting the gas pedal too hard. Let’s see how this all plays out in the end.
