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Maryland Speed Cameras Underperform, Audit Finds

By: Sharon Rae // November 27, 2012
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Speed cameras in Maryland work zones are likely more accurate now that technology has improved.
Andrew Bossi: http://www.flickr.com/photos/thisisbossi/5353517749/
Speed cameras in Maryland work zones are likely more accurate now that technology has improved.

The reliability of Maryland's work zone speed camera program is being questioned after an audit of the State Highway Administration finds that citations were issued to less than half the drivers caught speeding.

The audit found that between Oct. 2009 and June 2010, only 44 percent of violators who were photographed got tickets. The rest were thrown out due to "reliability and readability issues.''

Fewer tickets of course translates into less revenue for the state. Transportation officials say Maryland brought in $850,000 less than previously estimated.

The State Highway Administration says it agrees with the findings, but says the technology has changed and the numbers have improved. There are currently 15 work zones in Maryland with speed cameras.

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