The City of Toronto is continuing to crack down on speeding drivers especially near schools in Community Safety Zones. According to newly released data, more than 36,000 tickets were issued from July to August, a significant drop from the 26,566 tickets in June thanks to the 50 automated speed enforcement (ASE) cameras peppered around the city — two in each city ward.
While the ASE devices continued to nab careless drivers throughout the summer, the number of repeat offenders dropped from 1,211 in July to 764 in August, proving that the presence of the photo radar cameras is causing drivers to slow down with the most frequent repeat offender receiving nine tickets on Algoma Street east of Royal York Road.
In the month of July, the intersection of Victoria Park Avenue near Tiago Avenue received the most tickets (14 per cent), and in August, the device on Greenwood Avenue, South of Glebeholme Boulevard issued the most fines at 2,673.
The highest speed detected was 141 km/h in a 50 km/h speed limit zone on Martin Grove Road, north of Garfella Drive. At this location, the device also captured 33 Part III offenders, the highest since the start of the enforcement.
While no demerit points will be incurred for those caught speeding, offenders must pay a set fine amount, determined by Schedule D of the Provincial Offences Act as well as a victim fine surcharge and applicable court costs. A person’s driving record will not be affected.
“Automated Speed Enforcement is a successful Vision Zero measure that reduces speeding and increases compliance at the locations where the cameras are placed,” said Mayor John Tory in a statement. “Along with the increased road safety enforcement efforts from the Toronto Police Service, the City will continue to invest in Vision Zero programs to protect our most vulnerable road users and continue to crack down on irresponsible and reckless driving.”
The cameras are set to move to the fourth round of locations in November and include spots on Avenue Road, Bathurst Street, Queens Quay, and Finch Avenue East.
The city’s map of the planned new locations can be found on this map.
