Israel Adjusts Speed Camera Enforcement Thresholds Based on Road Risk Levels

The Israeli Traffic Department announced a new policy change regarding the operation of fixed A-3 speed cameras, effective within the coming days. Instead of a uniform speed violation threshold, each camera's enforcement level will now be tailored to the specific risk profile of the road segment where it is installed. This means that in some locations, drivers may receive fines for smaller speed infractions than before, while in others, the threshold for issuing tickets may be raised.

The legal speed limits on roads remain unchanged; the adjustment only affects the speed at which cameras begin recording violations. For example, on a road with a 70 km/h limit, a camera that previously recorded violations starting at 85 km/h might now issue tickets starting at 75 km/h. Conversely, in lower-risk areas, the threshold could increase. The police will not disclose which cameras have had their enforcement thresholds altered, so drivers will not know where enforcement has become stricter or more lenient.

The decision to customize enforcement levels was based on a comprehensive analysis of factors including accident history, number of casualties, traffic volume, road layout, and other risk indicators. Police Commissioner Danni Levi emphasized that the goal is to focus enforcement efforts on roads and segments with higher accident risks, thereby enhancing road safety. Each A-3 camera across the country was individually assessed to determine the appropriate new threshold.

This change reflects a strategic shift towards risk-based traffic law enforcement, aiming to reduce accidents by adapting speed monitoring to the specific dangers of each road segment.