A new generation of urban radars is coming to town, and they do much more than monitor intersections

In Bouches-du-Rhône, in Marseille in particular, three new ruthless and versatile radars have started flashing motorists since Tuesday.

No new sheriff in town in Marseille but new urban radars which promise to make a splash. Not content with surprising motorists who cross the red light, they can also catch those who fail to fasten their seat belts. Installed in strategic locations, they are likely to cause many victims in the Marseille city.

Radars located in strategic locations

After two years of testing, the Bouches-du-Rhône police headquarters confirmed, by press release, the official launch of three new urban radars. Since Tuesday January 16, 2024, the three devices, installed on very thick metal posts, flash cars and two wheels which cross the traffic light when it is red.

Remember that not stopping at a red light is punishable by a withdrawal of 4 points on your driving license, to which you will have to add a fine of 135 euros.

The authorities carefully chose the locations of the speed cameras. The first is located at a crossroads on Boulevard Baille in Marseille, an artery known for its numerous intersections and renowned for often being crossed beyond the authorized speed. The second operates at the intersection of rue Callelongue and avenue Clot Bey, not far from a high school where a previous generation radar had already penalized many motorists. The third is located in Pennes-Mirabeau, a few kilometers from Marseille.

A radar capable of penalizing multiple offenses

Smaller and a little more graceful than the gray blocks that preceded them, these urban radars are more adapted to the urban environment, but they also take a step forward in terms of technology. We can already see this in Lyon, where thermal carpooling radars will be tested at the start of the year.

If the system in place in Marseille can sanction a motorist who crosses the red light, it is entirely capable of spotting someone who has not worn their seat belt or who is using their mobile phone while driving. For the moment, however, it will only sanction crossing the red light. But we understand that expanding the range of sanctions is only a matter of time.

Marseille remains a city particularly affected by road incivility. It is in the municipality that the highest number of road accidents in the department were recorded last year.