Red Light Cameras: A Proven Method to Save Lives

Getting Results

As the startling statistics indicate, red light running is a real problem which jeopardizes the safety and lives of Americans on a daily basis. Red light camera technology, a proven method of increasing red light safety, is one of the solutions to the dangers of red light runners. This technology has already yielded undeniable proof of its effectiveness in saving lives. Consider the following success stories:

• Washington, D.C. - red light running fatalities were reduced from 16 to 2 in the first two years of red light cameras.
• Fairfax, Virginia - a 44% reduction in red light running crashes.
• Oxnard, California - a 22% reduction in red light crashes citywide.
• New York City - a 34% reduction in red light violations.

The clear message this data suggests is that red light cameras save lives and increase traffic safety.

How the Cameras Work

Photo enforcement cameras placed at intersections take pictures of the intersection after the light has turned red. These pictures of the vehicle’s license plates are then sent to the violator with the appropriate fine. Since a photo is not taken until the law is broken, these cameras pose no threat to privacy.

For a more extensive fact sheet on red light camera enforcement, click here.

For an up-to-date list of communities, visit the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety website.