Friday, January 11, 2013

Are Red Light Cameras Effective? Not So Much

Florida Sheds Light On Red Light Camera Results
LABELLE, FL. -- A new report on red light cameras used to enforce red light running at Florida city intersections indicates vehicle owners have about a 70% chance of getting ticket violations dismissed in court if they contest the ticket.

The effectiveness of accident reduction because of the camera may be in doubt according to the released statistics. Less than half of the government agencies reported reductions in side and rear end crashes because of the camera enforcement programs. Which of course also means a little more than half of the agencies didn't see any difference in those type of crashes when comparing rates before the cameras and after.

As required by section 316.0083, Florida Statutes, the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles is directed to yearly provide a summary report on the use of red light cameras. The cameras are also known officially as "traffic infraction enforcement detectors."

Seventy-three local agencies in Florida reported that there are 404 intersections with red light cameras installed. During the reporting period of July 1, 2011 through June 30, 2012, these agencies reported issuing 999,929 Notices of Violation.

These agencies also reported that 20,064 Notices of Violation were challenged. Of those violations challenged, 14,065 (70%) were dismissed.

Forty-three percent of agencies reported a reduction in side-impact crashes, 41% of the agencies surveyed experienced a reduction in rear-end crashes, while 56% of the agencies experienced a total reduction in crashes at red light camera intersections.

In Hendry County, the city of Clewiston has red light cameras. This week they logged 54 red light violations.

Photo Credit: Clipdude

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