Phoenix Issues 7,900 Speed Camera Tickets in One Month: Are They Legally Enforceable?

Phoenix has issued 7,900 speed camera citations in just over a month since activating enforcement cameras across 17 locations as part of its Vision Zero traffic safety initiative. Before enforcement began on March 25, the city recorded approximately 70,000 speeding events during a warning period.

Legal experts now question whether these citations are legally enforceable. Josh Kolsrud, a criminal defense attorney, explained to 12 News that for a speeding ticket to be valid, it must be personally served by a certified process server or a resident of legal age at the recipient’s address.

“The fine print says that in order for the speeding ticket to be enforceable, it has to be personally served on you, meaning that a process server, somebody who’s certified to serve the ticket, has to personally serve you, or somebody who resides at your house and of a legal age.” — Josh Kolsrud, criminal defense attorney

Reactions from drivers have been mixed. Some defend the cameras, others criticize their accuracy, and many simply pay the fine to avoid future complications. However, legal experts suggest that paying may not be necessary if the citation was not properly served.

Arizona’s History of Flip-Flopping on Traffic Cameras

Arizona has repeatedly changed its stance on traffic cameras over the years. The state’s latest reversal has led to the current enforcement system in Phoenix. Legal battles over camera-based traffic systems are not unique to Arizona. California, for example, has spent years debating the legality and enforceability of red-light and speed cameras.

California’s Legal Battles Over Traffic Cameras

Several California cities have abandoned red-light camera programs due to legal disputes over improper ticket processing, unclear signage, and concerns about private contractors handling enforcement. In some cases, courts dismissed citations because prosecutors struggled to authenticate evidence or establish clear chains of responsibility.

While some jurisdictions have resolved these legal challenges, it remains uncertain whether Phoenix will address them before voters potentially ban the cameras permanently.