Legality/Accuracy of DC speeding cameras:

[Daseal]

Hey Guys,

I'm curious as to if anyone knows about the speeding cameras in DC. I got two tickets on the same day for a total fine of 300 bucks (600 if I don't pay before my court date) and I'm curious about a few things when it comes to these cameras.

1) Have they been challenged in court? I know these same cameras have given tickets to parked cars for speeding, etc. I don't know how this works with the whole face your accuser, being able to know that the camera was calibrated/accurate, etc.
2) It says 0 points on my license, which is well and good. But are these tickets reported to the insurance company? It sounds like just a source of revenue for DC, but hopefully someone has a definitive answer.
3) What are your thoughts on these cameras. Seem a bit iffy to me, and apparently have been causing awful traffic/pile ups in DC when people slam on their brakes to avoid them.

Any input on these cameras would be appreciated before I send DC 300 bucks.