Automated Speed Enforcement (ASE), a widely known speed management strategy, extends beyond its safety benefits and is shaped by public trust, broader governance, and policy frameworks. This study evaluated public opinions of the ASE program in school zones in Georgia, United States, which has recently undergone multiple policy changes. An online survey was conducted targeting Georgia drivers aged 18 years or older, which gathered 502 responses from a representative sample based on exposure, direct school connections, and sociodemographic factors. Respondents indicated their agreement levels on a Likert scale across multiple statements about ASE and their thoughts on enhancing the program’s transparency, trustworthiness, and fairness. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive statistical techniques and cross-classification. Among all respondents, 71 percent supported the program, and among individuals who had driven through speed-enforced school zones, 81 percent reported that ASE led them to reduce speeds. Issuing the citation to the actual driver at the time of violation, publicizing revenue allocation and utilization, publicizing safety benefits, and clearly posting the speed limits and the hours under evaluation were among the key concerns. These findings highlight the significance of integrating public perceptions into ASE policy, identifying areas needing improvement, and promoting community-endorsed traffic safety interventions.
Gunathilaka et al. (Tue,) studied this question.