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1. What is this all about?

The State of Maryland authorized the use of speed monitoring systems (also called “speed cameras”) in school zones and highway work zones. These systems use technology to determine speed violations and thereafter to send the registered owner of the vehicle a citation. The City of Frederick passed local enabling legislation for the use of speed monitoring systems in school zones in November 2009. A school zone is defined as a one-half mile radius around a school. These systems will only be in operation Monday through Friday from 6:00 A.M. to 8:00 P.M.

2. Why do we need speed monitoring systems?

Speeding is a serious problem everywhere. It seems we are all in a hurry. Serious injuries and deaths have occurred as a result of speeding. The safety of children in school zones, and our citizens in general, are goals on which all can agree.

3. Isn’t this just a mechanism to generate more money?

While revenue will be generated because there are, unfortunately, those who will choose to speed, revenue generation is not the primary motivator for this initiative. Safe kids, safe streets, and a safe motoring public is our goal. There is one easy way to defeat speed cameras…don’t speed. The program will be evaluated continuously and adjustments made as necessary and/or appropriate. Success will actually be measured in a reduction in violations, reductions in average speeds, and consequently a reduction in revenue!

4. How does the system work?

Speed monitoring can be done in one of two ways- by fixed cameras in specified locations, or by cameras that can be moved from location to location. Our current plan is to eventually have both types in operation in the City of Frederick. Prior to placing any kind of camera, we must evaluate a location both for the physical ability to place a camera and to identify a public safety need for it.

Basically, the speed monitoring system is a radar device that measures the speed of every vehicle that passes by. Vehicles found to be exceeding the speed limit by at least 12 miles per hour will be captured electronically and by digital image. That violation information is then sent for a preliminary check to make sure that all of the equipment was operating properly, and to obtain registration information on the violating vehicle. Once that is completed, the violation is sent to the police department for review. If the reviewing police employee approves the violation, a violation notice is then sent to the vehicle owner.

5. How do you know I was driving the vehicle when it was speeding?

We do not. The law allows for the violation notice to be sent to the registered owner of the vehicle. The monitoring does not image the driver of the vehicle.

6. I have heard there is no way to fight these tickets. Is this true?

No. When you receive the violation notice, there are instructions for how to pay the citation or request a court date in the District Court. If you request a court date, a police employee will be present to show the evidence on which the citation was based.

7. What happens to my license and insurance if I pay the ticket or I am found guilty in court?

Nothing. Speeding violations captured by speed monitoring are civil violations. There is no impact on your license status, no points assessed, and no insurance impact. The only penalty is monetary.

8. What is the maximum fine?

The maximum fine is $40.00, and this is stated on the violation notice. However if you do choose to stand trial in the District court and either plead guilty or are found guilty, the court may impose an additional court cost of $22.50

9. Are these “speed traps?”

No. Each school zone that may be using speed monitoring will be designated by very visible signs. Additionally, the locations will be published on the City’s website and in a newspaper of general circulation before the speed monitoring system is operational. Additionally, for the first thirty days after the first system is in operation, only warnings will be issued.