Red Light Cameras: Are they helping or hurting drivers in Florida?

Recently, there have been heated discussions on the use of red light cameras in Florida. The question up for debate is whether red light cameras are actually helping or hurting drivers in Florida. Legislators are claiming that red light cameras are in place to provide an additional revenue source for counties and cities, not to improve safety. However, several statistics have shown that red light cameras are improving road safety by decreasing fatalities. Both sides of the argument present strong viewpoints on the issue.

With red light cameras in 74 municipalities, five counties, and 922 intersections in Florida, it’s no wonder these cameras are stirring up quite a few conversations. Two lawmakers have filed bills to repeal Florida’s red light camera law because they claim these cameras are being used as additional revenue streams under the guise of the safety provisions. Total red light camera revenue statewide increased from $37.6 million in 2010-2011 to $118.9 million in 2012-2013. The lawmakers feel that there are other means to prevent drivers from running red lights. These include adding LED lighting in traffic signals, extending yellow-light times in the signals, and even hiring additional law enforcement.

Tampa recently voted against renewing its red light camera contract because some members were not happy with how the city spent the money raised from tickets. While some members of the council reasoned it shouldn’t be about the money, the majority stood firm in their decision not to renew the contract. Situations such as the one in Tampa have made it difficult for red light cameras to gain wide acceptance amongst Florida lawmakers.

In December 2013, the Florida Department of Transportation mandated that the duration of yellow lights at red-light-camera intersections be extended by 0.4 seconds, with which Winter Park did not comply. As a result, more than 500 motorists received a $158 red light violation that they should not have gotten. The city chose not to comply with the mandate because its focus was making money from red light violators. Unfortunately, Winter Park neglected to make changes that could have increased safety for its residents.

Although valid concerns were raised about these cameras being used as revenue funnels, statistics have shown red light cameras are actually helping in Florida. The Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability (OPPAGA) reported that fatalities at intersections with red-light safety cameras are down by 49 percent and side-swipe accidents are down by 84 percent. This accounts for 18 fewer deaths, as well as 69 fewer serious injuries per year. The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles also found that 95 percent of the drivers cited by a red-light camera have not received a second citation, indicating that drivers are becoming more mindful of their driving after receiving a citation.

With the cameras mostly in South and Central Florida, including Miami, St. Petersburg and Fort Lauderdale, the government has to ensure that the priority of the cameras is safety, not profit. When additional measures are put in place, drivers are more likely to abide by them on the roadways. However, it is up to the lawmakers to make clear that the motivation behind this technology is not only for profit, but also to promote safer roads for drivers.

If you have wrongfully received a red light camera ticket, contact the Law Offices of Michael Brehne for a free consultation.