Traffic Video Resolution and Frame Rate

Short answer

Resolution and frame rate should be judged against the smallest detail and fastest movement the study needs to identify, not by a generic minimum claim.

Before the project starts

• Confirm the required vehicle, movement or active-travel detail.
• Check source compression and digital zoom behaviour.
• Verify that timestamps and playback are continuous.

Practical approach

Use the original or approved source wherever possible. Review whether a class cue, crossing path or queue reference point remains visible at normal playback and when a record needs closer inspection.

Checks and limitations

Test difficult conditions such as overlapping vehicles, fast turns and lower-light periods before accepting a source.

Higher resolution does not compensate for poor angle, blocked view or motion blur.