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Md. SHA extends speed camera grace period, holds off on fines
Friday, Nov. 13, 2009
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Motorists traveling in three highway work zones across Maryland have a little longer to get accustomed to the eye in the sky without paying a fine
The State Highway Administration announced last week that it will continue to issue only warnings to drivers who are caught by automated cameras exceeding the posted speed limit for at least two more weeks.
Since speed cameras were first placed in work zones along Interstate 95 in Montgomery County and Interstate 695 in Baltimore County in early October, more than 900 warning notices have been mailed to speeders.
With the extension of the grace period, speed cameras will also be placed along a third work zone on I-95 near White Marsh, north of Baltimore. Permanent signs approaching each work zone alerts motorists to the presence of speed cameras.
Once the test phase ends, motorists caught exceeding the speed limit by at least 12 mph will receive $40 citations per violation
"We are extending the warning phase because our goal isn't to ‘catch' speeders, but to give citizens an opportunity to change dangerous driving behaviors before MSP and MdTA begin issuing citations," SHA Administrator Neil J. Pedersen said in a statement, referring to the Maryland State Police and Maryland Transportation Authority.
State legislators passed the bill allowing the installation of speed cameras in highway work zones and near schools in this year's legislative session. The law took effect Oct. 1. Each county has the authority to decide whether to permit speed cameras in its jurisdiction.
Revenues will be used to cover the costs of administering the program and additional proceeds will be set aside for police roadside enforcement activities, according to the SHA release.
