Red light cameras are supposed to prevent accidents, but we all know it's a money making scheme for cities. I heard on the radio this morning that the yellow light where there is a camera has a shortened time before the light turns red compared to traffic lights without cameras. There have also been complaints here in Texas about tickets issued when someone doesn't come to a complete stop before turning right. People have had enough of them and petitions are being presented to do away with the program. Ohio has passed a bill requiring an officer to be present and observe the violation before a citation can be issued. According to an article in the Fort Worth Star Telegram revenue here in Texas was supposed to go to trauma centers, but it was only ear marked for the first year, since then 97 million has been collected but not distributed.Meanwhile, not all recipients of citations pay the fine. About 40% don't bother and as it's a civil matter a warrant can't be issued and there is little recourse for the city unless they choose to hold up vehicle registrations until the fine is paid (some counties in Dallas are choosing to do this).
What are your thoughts on red light cameras?
The National Motorists Association says red-light cameras don’t boost safety, don’t provide a true witness to the violation and don’t positively identify the motorist. The group says there are better options to keep streets safe.
“Government funds should be used on improving intersections, not on ticket cameras,” according to the Wisconsin-based association. “Even in instances where cameras were shown to decrease certain types of accidents, they increased other accidents.
