Remember to drive safe and slow down: Automated speed enforcement and red-light cameras are coming

DURHAM: Automated Speed Enforcement (ASE) and Red Light Cameras (RLC) will soon be in effect on Durham roads. As part of Durham Vision Zero, both initiatives are reminders to slow down and drive safe, and are expected to be implemented by the end of August through to early September; just in time for back to school safety on our roadways. Although fines are not yet being issued, ASE and RLCs have already been installed on some roadways and have started to collect data. Over a 40-day period, one camera captured more than 100,000 vehicles travelling above the posted speed limit, in a community safety zone on Simcoe Street in Oshawa, and about one third of those drivers were travelling in peak traffic times. “Although an extreme outlier, the top speed, captured on Bayly Street, was 196 km per hour; 136 km over the speed limit. That is a blatant disregard for human life. The data collected so far indicates how this technology will play a significant role in creating safer roads for drivers, pedestrians and cyclists. The goal of Automated Speed Enforcement and Red Light Cameras, two Durham Vision Zero initiatives, is not only to correct aggressive driving behaviours, but it is part of a long-term plan to ensure a safe transportation system that sees no lives lost or serious injuries on Durham roads. It is easy to avoid getting a fine, simply follow the law and drive safe.” stated Ramesh Jagannathan, Director of Transportation and Field Services. This data further enforces the need for safety equipment, to modify aggressive driving behaviour and create safer roadways for everyone. ASE is currently being installed in school zones and designated Community Safety Zones, and RLCs are being set up at intersections. Twelve red light cameras and four automated speed enforcement cameras are being installed on Durham roadways this year, with plans for additional camera locations in the future. For more information on ASE, visit durham.ca/ASE. To learn more about the RLC program and how it works, visit durham.ca/RedLightCameras. Durham Vision Zero is a long-term, multi-agency strategy to create safer roads for drivers, pedestrians and cyclists. Learn more online at durham.ca/VisionZero.