An evaluation of the effectiveness of speed cameras in Christchurch: an approach to speed related driving behaviour

Abstract

Speed is considered to be a major road safety issue. One policy response to this issue has been the increased use of speed cameras in designated speed camera areas. This study attempts to improve understanding of drivers' speed choice by measuring driver response to designated speed camera areas and the presence of speed cameras in these areas. It also quantifies the effect of environmental factors on speed in speed camera and non-speed camera areas.

Comprehensive observation and measurement of traffic at 3 speed camera and 3 non-speed camera sites in Christchurch provided data on 24 variables including speed and environmental conditions. Multiple regression analysis was used to run a logarithmic linear regression model of drivers' speed choice. To explore the effect of speed camera sites and the presence of speed cameras at sites, this study employed an interactive regression model. The analysis revealed that speed camera sites reduced speed distribution, while the presence of a speed camera reduced average speed at the site. Speed camera sites also influenced drivers' awareness of the potential presence of the speed camera. Drivers' responsiveness to poor visibility and wet road surfaces appeared greater in speed camera areas than in non-speed camera areas. The study suggested improvements both in technical aspects and policy of the deployment of speed cameras in order to promote a safer road in Christchurch.