> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.burakov.net/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Speed cameras

> How WhySoSlow's ~30-second, direction-aware automatic-camera warnings work.

WhySoSlow warns you before **automatic-enforcement** speed cameras — the ones that actually issue
speeding fines — so they never take you by surprise.

## How a warning works

<Steps>
  <Step title="~30 seconds out">
    As you approach a camera, you get one **short, distinct** alert about 30 seconds before it —
    enough time to ease off calmly, never a last-second slam.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Only in the enforced direction">
    The alert fires **only when you're driving into the direction the camera enforces**. Passing it
    the other way stays silent.
  </Step>

  <Step title="At the camera's own limit">
    The limit roundel switches to the **camera's enforced speed**, which often differs from the
    road's posted limit. If you're already over the camera's fineable threshold as you approach, the
    alert is stronger.
  </Step>
</Steps>

<Note>
  Camera alerts use a **different sound** from the overspeed alert, so you always know which one
  you're hearing without looking at the screen.
</Note>

## Where the camera data comes from

WhySoSlow layers three sources so coverage is as complete as possible:

1. **Ukraine's official open dataset** (`data.gov.ua`) — the base, including camera type, direction,
   and, where published, the enforced speed.
2. **OpenStreetMap** — fills in cameras and directions the official set misses.
3. **Your own markers** — anything still missing, you can add yourself (see
   [Your limits & markers](/whysoslow/your-markers-and-limits)).

If a camera's direction isn't known from any source, WhySoSlow warns you **both ways** to stay safe.
The camera list refreshes automatically whenever you're online (see
[Offline maps](/whysoslow/offline-maps)).