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Speed cameras
Q&A: Photo Enforcement Program for School Zone Speed Violations
Why use traffic safety cameras?
Speeding is related to almost one third of all fatal crashes, according to the U.S. Federal Highway Administration.
In July 2008, the Issaquah City Council adopted an ordinance that authorized the use of “automated traffic enforcement” to further its goals of creating a safe environment for Issaquah’s citizens.
When deciding where to place the cameras, Second Avenue Southeast was identified as a safety priority, as four schools are located in the area.
How does the program work?
The cameras – which operate on school days from 7 a.m.-4 p.m. – monitor both directions of travel along Second Avenue Southeast near Issaquah High School.
Only vehicles that exceed the school zone’s speed limit of 20 mph are photographed and videotaped. Before infractions are mailed to the registered owners of speeding vehicles, the Issaquah Police Department reviews and confirms each violation.
The cameras will only capture images of the rear of the offending vehicle and license plate. The City is also installing signs along the roadway to notify drivers of the cameras.
When does this program start?
Starting the week of March 16, 2009, the City began to issue warnings, but not infractions. However, after the warning period ended April 16, 2009, violators will start to receive fines.
How much is the penalty?
The fine amount is $124. If a payment is not received, or a hearing is not set, prior to the due date indicated on your notice, a late fee may apply.
I’ve received a Notice of Infraction. What are my options?
There are several options:
1) Pay the penalty.
2) Request a mitigation hearing to explain the circumstances.
3) Request a hearing to contest the notice of infraction.
4) Submit a declaration of non-responsibility.
Instructions on how to proceed with each option are included on your notice.
How do I pay the penalty?
There are several payment options:
1) Pay in person, from 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Mondays through Fridays, at the Issaquah Municipal Court Building, 135 E. Sunset Way in Issaquah. Payment is accepted in cash, checks, money orders or Visa/MasterCard.
2) Send a check or money order, payable to the City of Issaquah, to P.O. Box 7005 Issaquah, WA 98027. Please write your ticket number on your check or money order.
3) Pay over the phone by calling 425-837-3170. Please have your credit card and ticket number ready.
What type of infraction is this?
An infraction detected through the use of an automated traffic safety camera is a non-criminal offense for which you cannot go to jail. The penalty for this infraction, like a parking ticket, is not part of the violator’s driving record.
Therefore, a finding that the infraction was committed – either by payment or after a hearing – will not be reported to the Department of Licensing. However, failure to respond to a Notice of Infraction, appear for a requested hearing or pay if found committed at a hearing, may result in a hold being placed on your vehicle registration and license tabs. You may also incur additional penalties, and unpaid fines will be sent to a collection agency.
What if I was not driving the offending vehicle during the time of the violation?
You can submit a declaration of non-responsibility. Instructions are included on your Notice of Infraction.
Where can I view photos and video of the incident?
Violators may view photos and video of the incident at http://www.violationinfo.com/. Those who don’t have access to a computer can call 425-837-3170 for more information.
Where can I read the City of Issaquah’s code that covers automated traffic safety cameras?
The City of Issaquah’s code is available online. Click here for more information.
I was driving under the speed limit along Second Avenue Southeast, but I still saw flashes from the camera taking photos. Why?
The camera may have been taking photos of a vehicle that was traveling in the opposite direction, or that was located in front or back of you.
Who do I call if I have further questions?
Call the Issaquah Municipal Court at 425-837-3170 from 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Mondays through Fridays.
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