The Ordinary Effect
Welcome to The Ordinary Effect—the podcast that shines a light on life’s most overlooked moments. Each episode explores something you’ve likely seen, felt, or wondered about—but never really unpacked. Whether it’s a tiny social habit, a quiet cultural shift, or just that odd thing people do on elevators, host Guido Piraino digs beneath the surface to reveal the deeper meaning behind the mundane. It’s smart. It’s human. It’s what happens when you start paying attention.
The stuff we all notice—but rarely talk about.
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The Ordinary Effect
Speed Cameras: Cash Grab or Community Safety Tool?
Are speed cameras really about keeping our streets safe — or just a convenient cash grab for local governments? In this episode of The Ordinary Effect (formerly G-Talk), we break down how speed enforcement systems work, why they often fail to prioritize community safety, and what you can do to challenge them. From hidden placements to questionable ticketing tactics, we uncover the truth behind the lens. Tune in for a clear-eyed look at the real impact of speed cameras — and how to protect your rights as a driver.
1. Confusing and Manipulative Speed Signage
The rapid and inconsistent changes in posted speed limits—often within a few dozen meters—set up drivers to fail. These erratic shifts, sometimes from 80 to 50 to 40 km/h with poor visibility, are less about safety and more about creating traps to issue fines.
2. Obstructed Signs and Zero Accountability
When signage is blocked from view (e.g., by another sign or tree branches), the driver has no fair warning. Yet, the system does not acknowledge these obstructions—even when presented with photographic evidence—undermining any claim that safety is the primary concern.
3. Passive Police Presence Undermines the “Safety” Narrative
In areas labeled as “Community Safety Zones,” police officers sit idly as violations occur. If the true purpose were safety, there would be active enforcement and intervention—not silent observation while an automated camera does the work.
4. A Tribunal That Ignores Context and Evidence
The appeal system is structured to dismiss your case. It allows no new evidence at later stages, quotes regulations inconsistently, and ultimately tells you your concerns don’t matter because there’s no insurance or demerit impact—just a fine. In short, “pay and move on.
5. The Price of “Just Paying the Fine” Adds Up
You’re told it’s “just a small fine” and doesn’t affect your record—but multiply that by thousands of drivers and it becomes a lucrative revenue stream. The system counts on your fatigue, not your justice, to keep the cash flowing.
Petition Link: https://www.change.org/RemoveSpeedCameras
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