Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
Transportation Committee |
HB 1332
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
Brief Description: Modifying yellow light intervals and monetary penalties related to automated traffic safety cameras.
Sponsors: Representatives Condotta, Hurst and Kirby.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 2/5/15
Staff: Andrew Russell (786-7143).
Background:
An "automated traffic safety camera" is defined in statute as a device that uses a sensor in conjunction with a camera to record a driver's failure to follow certain traffic laws. Currently, automated traffic safety cameras may be used to detect red light violations, railroad crossing violations, and speeding violations in school zones. Traffic infractions for violations detected by an automated traffic safety camera carry monetary penalties that range from $42 for a failure to obey a traffic control device to $182 for traveling more than 35 miles per hour over the speed limit. These penalties are also subject to additional statutory assessments.
Generally, before an automated traffic safety camera may be installed, the local jurisdiction must adopt an ordinance allowing for the use of such a camera. In addition, the location where a camera will be installed must be marked at least 30 days prior to the camera's activation, and the camera may only take a picture of the vehicle and only while the violation is occurring. Finally, the pictures produced from an automated traffic safety camera are not open to the public and may not be used in a court proceeding except a proceeding relating to a traffic infraction recorded by the camera.
When an automated traffic safety camera is used to detect red light violations, the traffic control signal must have a yellow change interval duration that complies with the requirements of the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD). The MUTCD directs authorities to use engineering practices in setting the duration and suggests that most should be between three and six seconds. Additionally, state law requires that this duration not be reduced after the placement of the camera.
Summary of Bill:
An intersection controlled by an automated traffic safety camera must have a yellow change interval duration of at least four seconds. Additionally, the monetary penalty for any violation detected by an automated traffic safety camera is $25.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Requested on February 4, 2015.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.