Red Light Cameras and Traffic Citations
Many states are issuing laws that require cameras on red light signals. These cameras take a picture of the license plate of vehicles running red lights. They have allowed law enforcement officials to crack down on this extremely dangerous traffic violation. Red light cameras also capture pictures of drivers speeding, illegally crossing rails, or violating tolls.
Nationwide, 21 states and the District of Columbia have laws that permit these cameras for at least one type of traffic enforcement. Although Utah permits red light cameras, their use is strictly regulated.
In Utah, traffic cameras are only allowed in school zones or in areas where the speed limit is 30 miles per hour or less. Furthermore, the use of traffic cameras must be approved by city ordinance. Traffic cameras can only be used for speed violation citations and the monetary penalty for infraction cannot exceed $1,000. In addition, a citation cannot be issued unless a police officer was present and witnessed the speeding infraction.
Like them or hate them, traffic cameras have been proven to reduce speeding. In 2003, an Institute study reported a decline in average speed by 14% in the District of Columbia only 6 months after implementing traffic cameras. Also, the amount of vehicles driving more than 10 mph over the speed limit declined 82%.
For a full list state-by-state summary of traffic cameral laws, go to the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety website at www.iihs.com.
