What can be done to end this problem?
It has probably happened to you, or someone you know, already. Especially, if you live in the law-abiding, state of Arizona. You’ll know what I’m talking about when you receive, in the mail, your official letter (along with photograph) informing you that you were caught speeding. Maybe you’re lucky enough to live in a state that doesn’t participate in such nonsense. Don’t cash in your chips, yet, as your luck is sure to
Speed camera located in Arizona
I have done extensive research on this annoying issue and have read numerous blogs and articles written about the so-called “pros and cons” of photo enforcement. Mind you, there are many cons and, for the violator, not any pros. It is a costly annoyance that only adds to an, already, demanding and hectic agenda.
This aggravation has led to a number of individuals taking vigilante-style attempts to rid our roadways of these enforcement locations. What begins as a rather stiff penalty, quickly, escalates to very serious and extremely intense measures.
At least one person is facing first-degree murder charges for his excessive actions. This particular incident happened just a few months ago.
While driving down the Loop101 in Scottsdale, an Arizona man believed it would be a good idea to, actually, shoot one of the enforcement vans and killing the operator. He was arrested the following day.
To date, the previous event is, perhaps, the most serious occurrence, but there are many, similar incidences throughout the United States, Australia, and Europe.
Vandalizing efforts to destroy the enforcement cameras, in the hopes that this will terminate the program, are made on a daily basis. These efforts, of course, are in vain.
The Motor Vehicle Department and “Redflex Trafficking Systems” have teamed together to create this multi-million dollar operation. These strategically placed cameras have become tremendously profitable. It has become their “cash cow” and is not going away soon.
So, the palpable question still remains unanswered. What, if anything, can be done to end this overpowering predicament? What can we possibly do, as drivers, to battle against this ruthless assault?
Easier said then done, however, there is a solution.
First of all, no matter how irritated you become by this program, vandalism is not the answer. The MVD is accumulating enough profits, to facilitate any damages you might accrue.
Photo Enforcement Image
Presently, the program is a success. The only possible way to eradicate the system is to eliminate the revenue. If the cameras aren’t catching speeders, it becomes ineffective. Costly. An enormous waste of time and money.
As drivers, the only way to effectively battle against this costly and nerve-racking curriculum, is to remain alert and slow down. Recognize where the enforcement cameras are stationed and keep an eye on how fast you are driving.
Through personal experience, I have learned that these cameras are calibrated to flash when a driver’s speed exceeds 11 miles over the speed limit. This is, truly, a nice cushion to have considering the alternatives.
A good thing to remember, if you need to speed, is to never go above 8 miles over the posted limit and you will be safe.
C’mon drivers, aggression and destructive behavior is, obviously, ineffective. If you want to pummel the system, you have got to play by the rules. Our strength is in our numbers. I realize it all sounds cliché, but together we can dominate and beat these guys!
It isn’t going to happen overnight and will take some time before you’ll see any noticeable results, but the outcome will be victorious.
Now, get out there, stay responsible and focused, drive with a new and innovative cause, and win…win…WIN!!!
Until next time,
-Michael L. Wilson
