The straw men of “speeding crisis” and “work zone crisis”

The straw men of “speeding crisis” and “work zone crisis” are the basis for the push to get speed cameras in Pennsylvania. There is neither a speeding crisis nor a work zone crisis. Unbiased studies show that Pennsylvania’s roads are the safest they have ever been. True statistics show that since 1970 less than 1 worker every two years has been killed in work zones by passing automobiles.

Only one reason the straw men are being trotted out by the Legislature in their promotion of speed cameras: For the ten$ of million$ of dollar$ speed cameras will unfairly steal from people who are driving at the safest speed. A 70 year old highway engineering principle called the 85th Percentile Speed* determines the safest speed. 90% of the limits in Pennsylvania are posted 8 to 16 miles per hour below the safest speed, turning people who drive the 85th Percentile Speed into criminals, and making it easy to write tickets. That’s how the camera boosters will make their money. Unfairly.

Highway safety studies, by groups with no financial incentives, conclude that speed cameras make the highways more dangerous. Yet, the Legislature believe the sales spiel from the camera makers, and are gung-ho to enact Speed Camera Bill SB 172, allowing speed cameras in Pennsylvania. How can our politicians put the financial well-being of the camera makers above the safety of the taxpayers?

All Pennsylvania governments are in desperate need of funds. Is that a reason to endanger drivers in this Commonwealth?

Your wallet and your life and limb are being put at grave risk by people you elected to prevent that. It’s time to tell every Senator and Representative to VOTE NO on Speed Trap Bill SB 172.

Tom McCarey Member, National Motorists Association
*The speed that 85% of drivers travel on a given stretch of road.