Practice Details
State Agency: Minnesota
Practice Provision: License plate photo-enforcement in work zones
Description:
A Minnesota study used the Motion Imaging Recording System (MIRS) to photograph the rear license plates of vehicles running red lights, speeding in roadway work zones, or driving under or around railroad crossing gates at several locations throughout Minnesota. In work zones, the study counted violations in a merging lane, with speed reduced to 40 mph, and with workers along the road. This was a joint project with multiple agencies on steering committee (3 cities, DPS, Metro Transit, Canadian Pacific Railway).
Time Frame: Preliminary work in 1996. Study took place in 1997. Assessment in 1998.
Assessment: According to press release, efficiency of equipment was good, but camera quality was inconsistent. Problem is much more widespread than expected, with 60% of vehicles in work zones exceeding posted speed limit in metro test areas. State law must be changed to allow DPS to issue citations based on this procedure. Department is distributing report to legislation and hopes for hearings, but legislative agenda may be full in 1998.
Where Documented: Report is available. Press release dated 1/26/98.
Notes: The clearinghouse has a copy of the press release.
Contact:
Mr. Robert C. Weinholzer
1500 W. Co. Rd. B-2
MS 725
Roseville, Minnesota 55113
Phone: (651) 234-7059
Fax: (651) 234-7042
Email: Robert.Weinholzer@state.mn.us
