New Speed Cameras Installed Near Pleasant Valley Elementary School

KNOXVILLE, MD News (2/7/2024) – The Washington County Sheriff’s Office has announced the installation of Automated Speed Enforcement Cameras in the vicinity of Pleasant Valley Elementary School, situated at the 1700 block of Rohrersville Road in Knoxville, MD. These cameras are scheduled to commence enforcement on February 7, 2024.

According to Washington County Sheriff’s Office, the primary objective behind the deployment of these cameras is to address speeding offenses occurring within school zones, ultimately aiming to curtail accidents and provide a deterrent effect to potential violators. Operating on weekdays from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m., the Automated Speed Enforcement Cameras are activated within designated school zones. To trigger the camera and consequently receive a citation, vehicles must exceed the posted speed limit by 12 mph or more. The fine for a school zone speed camera violation is set at $40, with no points attached. It’s important to note that citations are issued to the registered owner of the vehicle.

Washington County Sheriff’s Office joins a growing number of jurisdictions utilizing automated speed enforcement technology to address traffic safety concerns, particularly in areas with high pedestrian activity such as school zones. Currently, similar cameras are operational at various school zones across the county, including locations such as Maugansville Elementary School, Paramount Elementary School, Eastern Elementary School/Ruth Ann Monroe Elementary School, Clear Spring Elementary School, Sharpsburg Elementary School, and Fountain Rock Elementary School. Additional cameras are operated in the City of Hagerstown.

Upon receiving a citation, the registered owner of the vehicle assumes responsibility for ensuring the fine is paid or requesting a court date to contest the violation. Citations are mailed to the address registered with the Maryland Vehicle Administration (MVA), within 14 days for in-state plates and 30 days for out-of-state plates, as mandated by law.

The usage of speed cameras has been controversial in Maryland, with groups such as the National Motorists Alliance (NMA) strongly opposing the cameras. They argue that photo radar, despite its precision claims, can still generate false readings, lacking the oversight of qualified officers. Critics suggest that speed cameras prioritize revenue generation over safety, strategically placed in high-traffic areas with under-posted speed limits. Additionally, the NMA highlights issues with accuracy on high-speed roads and the potential influence on artificially low speed limits. They raise doubts about the evidence supporting safety improvements and criticize the absence of certifiable witnesses to alleged violations. Concerns also include notification delays, lack of driver identification in photos, and inconvenience to motorists when contesting tickets. These objections underscore ongoing debates regarding the balance between road safety measures and motorists’ rights.

To contest a citation, individuals have the option to appear in the District Court of Maryland for Washington County. They can initiate this process by completing the form provided on the back of the Citation and submitting it at least 5 days before the “Due Date” specified on the citation.

Story by multiple RFHC contributors.