Big Bucks, No Whammies

Before you think that I am going to be talking about gambling, put a leash on your thoughts. This is about the revenue generated by Montgomery County, Maryland this current fiscal year (by the way, fiscal year runs from October to September) by installing speed cameras around the area. The county has made $15 million in revenue this year. The speed cameras were installed and functioned since July 1st, earning $1.5 million a month. If you are caught on those speed cameras driving past the speed limit, you would receive the citation in mail with the nice little picture of you in the car with your license plate. The fine would be $40 per citation and luckily there are no points that go on your license. Know that if the same thing were to happen, that you sped and the police officer pulls you over, you get about $90 in fine with two points on your record. The least you can do is pose a smile when speeding past those cameras.

Many (who are victims) may argue that posting such speed cameras at almost every signal or road to trap drivers to make revenue is not good. But I don’t think it is such a bad deal at all. When DOT is posting signs on speed limit, it becomes the duty of the driver to follow that speed limit while on the wheel. When the sign reads ‘speed limit 35 mph’, why is there an urge to go at 50 mph? Is there a plane waiting for you to catch or are you speeding to propose to someone in front of the whole world? (That would be worth to get the speeding ticket for). Does it not suffice to know the rules and adhere to it? Must someone be watching over to see if you follow them or not? But that is the human nature, to push the limits and see how far one can go without getting caught.

Now the cops are getting smarter and DOT has these cameras installed to get two shots in one aim. They can make sure that the drivers follow the speed limit and drive safely around, and to generate revenue while making sure that the rules are followed. Getting about $53,000 per day by just flashing few light bulbs on those cameras is not a bad deal at all for the county. It is their hunting season and they are looking out for those who want to try those driving maneuvers on the roads. Now that summer is around the corner, you can see cops on the motorbikes as well, targeting those who violate traffic laws. It is big bucks for the Montgomery County and hopefully speeders won’t have to say ‘Cheese’ and avoid the whammies!