Recently installed speed cameras throughout San Francisco are capturing an average of more than one thousand speeding drivers each day, according to data released by the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency.
SFMTA began its speed camera pilot program in April, with cameras set up so far at 21 locations across the city. For now, drivers caught traveling more than 10 mph over the speed limit are only being issued warnings.
SFMTA released data showing the total count of warnings issued, the average speed of drivers caught traveling beyond the limit, and which locations saw the highest volume of warnings issued.
It revealed that more than 31,000 warnings were issued during the month of April, with most speeding drivers traveling an average of 11 to 15 mph over the speed limit.
One area in particular, Fulton Street between Arguello Boulevard and Second Avenue, accounted for 44% of the average daily total violations.
Geary Boulevard between Webster and Buchanan streets saw the next highest number of violations, including one driver who traveled 65 mph in the 30-mph zone.
The data also found that most speeding violations occurred during the morning rush hour, between 7 and 8 a.m.
Although the pilot program is still in its early stages, April’s data is revealing important trends in traffic safety that can help SFMTA determine which areas need improved safety measures, the agency said.
For example, the sheer number of warnings issued at Fulton Street between Arguello Boulevard and Second Avenue is prompting SFMTA to add more speed limit signs and speed limit pavement markings.
Jodie Medeiros is the executive director of Walk San Francisco, an organization that advocates for pedestrian safety. Although she hopes that the cameras will help deter speeding, she wants the city to double down on its efforts to promote traffic safety.
“This data reflects what we have been feeling: that dangerous speeding is out of control on our streets, and is a daily threat to our safety,” she said in a statement released by the organization. “The city must address speeding not just with speed cameras, but every possible tool.”
SFMTA expects that the rest of cameras will be activated at an additional 12 locations by early June. Once all cameras are activated, there will be a 60-day grace period before citations will start to be issued in August.
This article was originally written by Alise Maripuu for Bay City News.
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