SENATE BILL REPORT

                            SB 6443

                    AS OF JANUARY 31, 1994

Brief Description:  Legalizing photo radar for speed enforcement.

SPONSORS: Senators Moyer, Pelz, Oke and Winsley

SENATE COMMITTEE ON LAW & JUSTICE

Staff:  Marty Lovinger (786‑7443)

Hearing Dates: February 1, 1994

BACKGROUND:

Speeding violations are currently enforced by the use of radar or the use of a pace.  After it is determined that a vehicle is exceeding the speed limit, the vehicle is pulled over, the driver is identified and given a notice of infraction.

Photo radar is a new technology involving the use of a camera attached to radar by a computer that enables a picture to be taken of a vehicle that is speeding above the tolerance level set by the operator.  The picture, taken of the oncoming vehicle, provides identifiable proof of the driver and the license number of the vehicle for the later mailing or delivery of a citation.

It is believed that the use of photo radar is efficient.  Fewer officers can cite more speed violators than a larger number can with the current enforcement programs. 

It is reported that statistics from communities where photo radar has been used indicate a large decrease in traffic accidents, fatalities, injuries and property damage.  This is partly due to the elimination of car chases, traffic stops, and contact between officers and violators. 

SUMMARY:

Photo radar is defined.

Law enforcement officers are authorized to send notices of infractions to registered owners of motor vehicles identified as speeding through the use of photo radar.

Courts must serve a notice of the infraction and a copy of the photo either personally or by mail as provided by court rule, if the violation is established by the use of photo radar.

Appropriation:  none

Revenue:  none

Fiscal Note:  requested January 25, 1994