France's introduction of an automated speed enforcement programme (CSA Controle Sanction Automatise) represents a major step in terms of combating traffic hazards. CSA is an innovative system in that its virtually fully automated functioning is ensured by digitisation of the processes involved and computerisation all along the line: detection, payment of fines, online consultation of one's driving license file, etc. The use of the latest technology nonetheless has its ambiguous side to the extent that it is seen as symptomatic of a system incorporating both "big brother" (gridding and surveillance of the road network) and "soft sister" (level of service on a safer network, and the pursuit of equity of treatment). This paper proposes a brief introduction to CSA and an overview of the first results to become available, and outlines some of the issues the system is currently raising. The first part of the article describes the context and the authorities' aims. It deals also with the working of the system and the followed strategy. The second part presents the first results obtained on driving speeds, infringements and accidents. (a) For the covering entry of this conference, please see ITRD abstract no. E216178.
Abstract