Data shows Automated Speed Enforcement making a difference on Regional roads

Early data from The Regional Municipality of York’s 20 existing fixed Automated Speed Enforcement (ASE) cameras shows real, demonstratable impacts in road safety.

York Region found when ASE is on Regional roads, cameras make a difference to: 

• Ensure drivers comply with speeds: Total collisions are forecasted to be 53% lower from 175 collisions annually to 93 by year-end
• Reduce injuries: Severe collisions with serious injuries have also declined significantly, down from an annual average of 39 to 8 serious injuries
• Ensure drivers comply with speeds: When ASE cameras are active, vehicle speeds decrease by an average of 15 km/h, and compliance with posted speed limits increases by 25%
• Influence behaviours: Penalty orders issued have decreased by 35% since January, indicating more drivers are adjusting their habits and following the posted speed limit

New research from CAA South Central Ontario released in July 2025 also shows ASE is changing Ontarian’s driver behaviour and drivers support the program. Study findings include:

• 73% of Ontario drivers slow down when nearing an ASE camera and 52% are unlikely to speed up after they pass through an ASE zone
• 73% of Ontario drivers support ASE in targeted areas like school zones or near community centres and 76% believe ASE cameras deter speeding altogether

These findings of public support are important, as the study also shows speeding remains one of Ontario’s most reported dangerous driving behaviours, with 40% of drivers admitting to it in the past year. 

Slowing down matters

Speed is a critical factor in the severity of collisions. Statistically, data shows if a pedestrian is hit by a vehicle travelling at 60 km/h, the chance of survival is zero; this compares to a 90% survival rate at 30 km/h, 60% at 40 km/h and 20% at 50 km/h; lower speeds are critical in areas where children and pedestrians are present.

Despite road safety improvements from the program, over 230 stunt driving incidents have been recorded by York Region ASE cameras, including speeds over 200 km/h in school zones, highlighting the continued need to protect vulnerable road users.

We extend our appreciation to York Regional Police for their ongoing support of the ASE program, which enables officers to focus on other critical enforcement areas and target serious offences.

York Region activating 20 new fixed ASE cameras this year

York Region is strengthening its commitment to road safety, activating 20 new fixed Automated Speed Enforcement (ASE) cameras by the end of 2025, bringing the total to 40 cameras on Regional roads. In addition, three mobile cameras continue to rotate every three to four months in designated community safety zones.

The ASE program is a key initiative of York Region’s Vision Zero Traveller Safety Plan, aiming to reduce severe collisions (involving injury or death) by 10% over five years. The Traveller Safety Plan is supported by industry professionals, consultants and road safety partners, including York Regional Police.

Revenue is primarily used to offset costs related to implementing the ASE program. Any remaining revenue are used to offset general Regional costs including costs related to road and community safety projects and initiatives, such as intersection improvements, roundabouts, active transportation facilities and accessibility improvements.

By reducing speeding, preventing collisions and protecting vulnerable road users, ASE plays a vital role in creating safer roads for everyone.  

Learn more

Want to understand how ASE works and why it matters? Watch our video and explore more about the program by visiting york.ca/TrafficCameraEnforcement