Bend’s new automated traffic camera program has already made a big impact, logging more than 400 infractions in its first two weeks of issuing tickets. The Bend Police Department said the system started issuing tickets at the end of May after a 45-day grace period. Cameras watch for speeding and red light violations at three busy intersections throughout the city. Police say the program is designed to improve road safety, reduce crashes and encourage drivers to slow down and stop for signals. A traffic enforcement agent reviews the citations, which are mailed to drivers.
Why Did Bend Start Traffic Camera Citations?
The citation phase began after the warning period expired at the end of May. The warning period was mandated by law and lasted 30 days, and was then extended 15 more days to verify the system was working correctly, Bend police said.
Which Bend Intersections Have Traffic Cameras?
The automated enforcement cameras have been installed at three intersections in Bend: SE Reed Market Road and Third Street, NE Neff Road and 27th Street, and U.S. Business 97 and Powers Road. Signs alerting drivers to the cameras were posted near those intersections and on main roads into the city.
How Does the Camera Enforcement System Work?
If a camera catches a vehicle going over the speed limit or a driver running a red light, the image is sent to a traffic enforcement agent with the Bend Police Department. That person watches the footage to decide whether to issue a citation. The case then continues through Bend Municipal Court.
As the car approaches the intersection , goes through the red light and displays the license plate, the system takes pictures. It also notes the time, place and length of the light change. Video footage is also taken from six seconds before the violation to six seconds after.
What Fines Do Drivers Face?
Running a red light (including failing to stop completely before turning right at a red light) costs $265.The fine for speeding depends on how fast you are going. Speeding 11–20 mph over the limit costs $165, 21–30 mph over the limit costs $265 and speeding 31 mph or more over the limit costs $440.
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Will Traffic Cameras Improve Road Safety?
The rollout shows how quickly automated enforcement can alter driver behavior in a city with notoriously busy intersections and growing traffic. Supporters say the cameras provide a consistent way to catch dangerous driving and improve safety without having to have officers posted at every intersection. But critics might point to the early numbers as a sign the city is relying too much on tickets. For now, Bend officials say the goal is simple: fewer crashes, safer roads and more drivers obeying the rules.
Shubham Rathore covers traffic, road conditions, driving rules, road safety, transportation updates, and issues affecting commuters and local drivers. His work focuses on practical road-related information, including traffic disruptions, travel advisories, safety guidance, and changes that impact daily movement.