Arizona Motorcycle Lawyer for The Risks to Motorcyclists of Highway Photo Radar

Motorcyclists riding on the 101, US60, I-10 or SR51 have likely encountered the bright flashes of photo radar speed enforcement, often paired with the flashing brake lights of inattentive motorists. Once confined to Scottsdale, photo radar has since spread to Phoenix, Tempe, Glendale and now even Eloy, Arizona. Supporters of this expansion argue these fixtures enhance safety. But, for motorcyclists on Phoenix highways, this is not always the case.

Studies show photo radar stations sometimes cause instances of speed differential: the sudden change in speed and flow of traffic. Reports on motorcycle safety show that speed differential is a major contributor to motorcycle accidents. Motorcyclists should be aware of and prepare for the unique risks associated with the increased number of photo radar stations on Arizona highways. If you or a loved one is ever injured by an inattentive driver's reaction to photo radar, you should consult with an Arizona motorcycle attorney to review your case.

About Photo Enforcement

Government use of photo radar speed enforcement is increasing in Maricopa County. There are two main varieties: speed enforcement and red light enforcement. While "red light cameras" are located at intersections across the valley, speed enforcement cameras are placed on both surface streets and highways. They take the form of fixed cameras and mobile units that frequently change location.

These fixtures are fiercely debated. Legislators like the large amounts of revenue brought in by fines, but also argue photo enforcement decreases average speeds and makes roadways safer. Steady lower speeds would have safety benefits for motorcyclists, but some studies show these cameras have little effect on lowering speeds consistently. Instead, driver reactions to the flashes and signs increase hazards to motorcyclists by sometimes causing speed differentials in the flow of traffic.

The Risks of Speed Differentials 

Speed differentials are caused by photo radar when motorists speed up between enforcement zones and slow suddenly when they spot the next camera. The "Motorcycle Accidents in Depth Study" (MAIDS) reports speed differential was a contributing factor in 18% of the motorcycle accidents studied: much higher than instances solely caused by high speeds.

Areas near photo enforcement zones pose unique dangers because the flow of traffic is disrupted and many motorists are forced to react quickly. Some make unsafe lane changes, some fail to react due to distraction, and others may overreact and brake suddenly. All of these reactions are disproportionately more dangerous for motorcyclists because of the tendency for other drivers to "just not see them."

Be Aware

In photo enforcement zones, motorcyclists need to drive defensively and be completely aware of surrounding risks. A motorcycle's smaller profile and tail lights place them at greater risk of being struck by inattentive motorists. The MAIDS report confirms that many accidents studied are caused by inattentive drivers of larger vehicles. 

Another leading factor in motorcycle wrecks illustrated by MAIDS was the failure of avoidance maneuvers. Sudden actions such as swerving or braking risk sliding or locking brakes, resulting in a loss of control and possible injury. Motorcyclists can minimize this risk by being aware of upcoming speed reductions and photo enforcement zones.

Websites such as njection.com offer maps of known photo radar and red light camera locations. When planning a commute, or an afternoon cruise, riders can check these maps and plan ahead to avoid a ticket or an accident. Unfortunately, a rider's preparedness is not always enough to prevent being struck by an inattentive driver.

Contact an Arizona Motorcycle Lawyer

If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident due to a negligent driver’s reactions near a photo radar station in Phoenix, Mesa, Chandler or elsewhere in Maricopa County, you should seek medical attention immediately, and it is recommended that you contact an experienced Arizona motorcycle attorney to discuss your case. For more information on motorcycle accidents in Arizona, please visit http://www.azmotorcycleaccidentlawyer.com/.

• Slow Down and Save Lives! City of Eloy Photo Radar Project, http://www.eloyaz.org/police.html (2009)
• Shanna Hogan, Highway Robbery, http://www.timespublications.com/feb09-feature1.asp (February 2009)
• European Safety Study Finds Familiar Causes for Motorcycle Accidents, http://www.motorcyclistonline.com/newsandupdates/european_motorcycle_safety_study/index.html (2009)
• Speedtrap Mashup, http://njection.com/speedtrap/ (2009)