Red Light Cameras Work

Every person that has a license to operate a vehicle is guilty of running a red light at on time or another. Atlanta surveillance cameras at all major intersections dramatically reduced the numbers of drivers who barrel through red lights, two new research reports say.

The findings come as a debate about the controversial devices continues a decade after they were introduced. The battles include a proposal to ban the cameras here in Georgia, legislation in at least three states and legislative efforts to permit them in six other states. The cameras automatically photograph vehicles that drive right into intersections after the light turned red. Vehicle owners are then mailed citations instructing them to pay a fine or sign an affidavit that they weren't driving at the time.

More than 850 people died and and about 170,000 are injured every year in crashes caused by drivers running red lights, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says. There's a dramatic change in driver behavior when red light cameras are used. The popularity of the cameras is growing rapidly despite the opposition that centers on constitutional grounds.

About 250 communities around the USA use the devices, according to the Insurance Institute. Just 10 years ago New york and San Fransisco had them. Opponents say the cameras deny drivers their right to confront their accusers in court and are a ploy by local governments to raise revenue. The rate of a red light running was actually higher than before the cameras were installed. One study examined signal violations at four intersections before light cameras were installed, while they were operating and after they were removed in 2005 violations more than tripled in 2006.

Ultimately this is an issue that may have to be decided in the court of public opinion rather than courts of law, it is a public policy.

Sources:
USA Today