Connecticut Speed Cameras Expanding: What Drivers Need to Know About Automated Enforcement
If you’ve driven through some well-travelled roads, throughout Connecticut, you may have already noticed warning signs of automated speed enforcement. The Silas Deane Highway, in Wethersfield, for example, is just one of several Connecticut municipalities implementing speed safety cameras.
More towns and cities are expected to follow suit, as the state expands the use of automated traffic enforcement programs. Recent approvals have added municipalities across Connecticut, making it increasingly likely that drivers will encounter speed cameras on roads they travel every single day.
Unlike a traditional speeding ticket issued by a police officer during a traffic stop, these violations are generated automatically by camera systems and are mailed to the registered owner of the vehicle.
Here's what Connecticut drivers should know.
How Do Connecticut Speed Cameras Work?
Connecticut law now permits municipalities to install automated speed enforcement cameras in approved locations after receiving authorization from the Connecticut Department of Transportation. These cameras are generally installed in areas identified as having safety concerns, including school zones, pedestrian safety zones, and other approved locations.
The cameras use radar technology to detect vehicles exceeding the applicable speed threshold. If the system records an alleged violation, images and other data are reviewed before a Notice of Liability is issued to the registered owner. Connecticut's separate highway work-zone camera program also uses State Police review before notices are mailed.
Notices Go to the Registered Owners of Vehicles
One of the biggest surprises for many drivers is that the notice is mailed to the registered owner of the vehicle, not necessarily the person who was driving.
This means you could receive a notice even if:
A family member was driving your vehicle.
A friend borrowed your car.
Someone else was operating the vehicle at the time of the alleged violation.
Unlike a traditional traffic stop, the camera system generally identifies the vehicle, not the driver. Under Connecticut's automated enforcement laws, liability is generally assigned to the registered owner unless a statutory exception applies, such as the vehicle having been reported stolen or the driver having already received a citation from a police officer for the same incident.
What Happens After You Receive a Notice?
The notice typically includes:
The date and time of the alleged violation.
The location.
Photographs of the vehicle.
The recorded speed.
Information explaining how to pay or contest the violation.
It is important not to ignore the notice. Failing to respond can lead to additional consequences, including possible registration-related penalties depending on the type of automated enforcement program involved.
Can You Challenge these Camera Citations?
Yes.
Receiving a camera-generated notice does not necessarily mean you must simply pay it. Connecticut law provides procedures for contesting automated enforcement violations.
Depending on the facts of your case, potential issues may include:
Whether your vehicle was correctly identified.
Whether the camera system was functioning properly.
Whether the notice complies with Connecticut's statutory requirements.
Whether the location was properly authorized.
Whether another legal defense applies under the circumstances.
Every case is different, and the available defenses depend on the specific facts and the governing law.
Paying the Fine
Many people assume that because a citation was generated by a camera, there is nothing they can do.
That is not always true.
Before paying any citation, it's worth reviewing:
The photographs.
The alleged speed.
The location.
The timing of the notice.
The instructions for contesting the violation.
An attorney can help determine whether there are valid legal grounds to challenge the citation.
Connecticut Speed Cameras Are Likely Here to Stay
Connecticut continues expanding automated traffic enforcement throughout the state. Municipalities are increasingly seeking approval to install speed cameras in areas with higher crash rates, school zones, and heavily traveled roads. In addition, Connecticut has separately launched automated speed enforcement in certain highway work zones to improve worker safety.
As these programs become more common, drivers should expect to see more automated enforcement, not fewer.
Have Questions About a Connecticut Camera Citation?
If you've received an automated speed camera notice in Connecticut, don't assume your only option is to pay it. An attorney can review the notice, explain your rights, and help determine whether there are legal grounds to challenge the alleged violation.
If you have questions about a Connecticut automated traffic enforcement citation or other traffic-related offense, contact Emily Shouse Criminal Defense Attorney to discuss your situation.
