Skip to Content
Streetsblog New York City home
Streetsblog New York City home
Log In
DOT

Data Show NYC Speed Cameras Deter Speeding and Reduce Injuries

Eight-five percent of crashes resulting in injuries or deaths occurred in areas where speed cameras are not permitted. Image: DOT

Automated speed cameras reduced speeding by 63 percent and pedestrian injuries by 23 percent at locations where NYC has used them, according to a report released by the city last week [PDF]. The data bolster the case for expanding the program, which the city could do if lawmakers pass twin bills now pending in Albany.

Bills sponsored by State Senator José Peralta and Assembly Member Deborah Glick would increase the number of allowed cameras to 750 and loosen restrictions on when and where they can be used.

Because state law limits NYC to 140 cameras, deployed near schools and activated only during school hours, 85 percent of traffic fatalities and severe injuries occur at times or locations that cameras aren't permitted.

The report, released last Friday, notes that NYC levies less severe penalties for camera violations -- a $50 fine with no license points -- than result from citations issued by police officers for the same offense. Still, the report says, once a driver gets one ticket, he or she is unlikely to speed in a camera zone. Only 19 percent of camera tickets go to repeat violators -- meaning speeding drops over time where cameras are present:

Image: DOT
Image: DOT
Image: DOT

Speeding is the leading cause of traffic fatalities in the city, according to DOT. Data show that drivers are far more likely to speed when cameras are turned off:

Image: DOT
Image: DOT
Image: DOT

Legislation to expand NYC's speed camera program was written in collaboration with the de Blasio administration. Reductions in traffic deaths in 2014 and 2015 coincided with the introduction of more cameras, but those gains leveled off when state lawmakers failed to authorize a program expansion last year.

Stay in touch

Sign up for our free newsletter

More from Streetsblog New York City

Cyclist: Cop Pulled a Taser During Summons Chase

In a dramatic escalation of the NYPD's criminal crackdown on bike riders, a police officer pulled a stun gun while chasing a cyclist for allegedly running a red light on a regular bike.

May 30, 2025

Albany Pols Seize the Helm(et)

Helmet laws remain controversial — they're the "common-sense" approach pushed by lawmakers who ignore that studies show they don't improve safety.

May 30, 2025

Tisch Reveals Real Reason for Her E-Bike Crackdown: E-Bike Licensing

NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch doubles down on her cycling criminalization campaign, saying e-bike licensing is the only other option.

May 30, 2025

Friday’s Headlines: A ‘Critical’ Moment Edition

Cyclists will protest against the NYPD's bike crackdown with a Critical Mass ride to City Hall on Friday. Plus more news.

May 30, 2025

Eyes on the Street: Astoria’s Big Beautiful 31st Avenue Bike Boulevard

Streetsblog paid a visit to New York City's widest on-street protected bike lane ever, which is up and running in Astoria.

May 30, 2025
See all posts