Since they were installed in 1999, reactions to the red-light and speed cameras have been decidedly mixed. While there has been support for photo traffic enforcement, many people see cameras as an invasion of privacy or even a ploy targeted at predominantly non-white communities. Others simply think they are an irritating way for the city to raise hundreds of millions of additional revenue.

However, the Washington Post reports today that the cameras are having an effect on the behavior of drivers around the city. On residential streets where speed cameras have been installed, the average speed of motorists has decreased by almost 30 percent, down to 25.4 mph – just above the posted limit. On highways, the same phenomenon has occurred, with average speeds at 45.2 mph in 50 mph zones, a decrease of about 22 percent. As a result, speed-related traffic accidents are down 40 percent.

We are certainly happy to see people observing local speed limits, which is obviously a good thing if it leads to less injuries and deaths on the road. However, we’d like to point out a phenomenon that we have observed. Drivers have learned where the speed cameras are located on each targeted road, and will slow down dramatically as they approach the camera’s view. As soon as they are out of range, though, they hit the gas. Anyone else experienced (or practiced) this evasion tactic?

Photo by IntangibleArts