The debate over red light cameras in Los Angeles has been ongoing for more than a decade. As the Los Angeles Board of Police Commissioners prepares to decide whether to approve the LAPD’s request for a new multi-year, multi-million-dollar contract for the city’s Photo Red-Light Program, drivers, taxpayers, and policymakers alike are asking an important question: Are traffic cameras legal in Los Angeles, California, and do they actually work? Are Traffic Cameras Legal In Los Angeles, California?
This article explores the legal battles, financial controversies, and political disputes surrounding Los Angeles’ red light camera program. We’ll look at who profits, who pays, and why many California cities have abandoned cameras altogether.
LAPD’s Request for a New Contract
The Los Angeles Police Department has asked the city to approve a new contract with American Traffic Solutions (ATS), the Arizona-based vendor currently operating the system. According to the LAPD, the new deal would keep the cameras running for several more years across dozens of busy intersections.
But the numbers don’t look good for the city’s bottom line. Under the proposed agreement, Los Angeles would actually lose a minimum of $1.5 million per year. Critics argue that no safety program should run at such a steep loss, especially when the public continues to question its effectiveness.
Arizona Boycott Controversy
Adding to the drama, ATS is headquartered in Arizona. Years ago, the Los Angeles City Council passed a resolution boycotting Arizona-based companies in protest of the state’s immigration policies. Now, with the LAPD pushing to sign a new deal with ATS, watchdog groups are pointing out the contradiction.
How can the city uphold a boycott while awarding a multi-million-dollar contract to an Arizona company? This inconsistency could sway the vote when commissioners meet to decide the fate of the program.
The Role of Safer Streets L.A.
Safer Streets L.A., a grassroots organization dedicated to motorist safety, has been one of the loudest voices opposing red light cameras in the city. The group argues that the cameras are less about safety and more about revenue generation, punishing drivers while failing to reduce accidents.
According to Safer Streets L.A., there is a growing chance that enough members of the Police Commission Board will reject the LAPD proposal, effectively ending the city’s red light camera program once and for all.
The organization also highlights the questionable ethics of ATS, pointing to reports that the company has engaged in manipulative campaigns designed to sway public opinion in favor of cameras. Publications such as the HeraldNet and Spokesman have reported on similar controversies involving the vendor in other states.
Do Red Light Cameras Improve Safety?
At the core of this debate is the question of whether cameras make streets safer. Studies have shown mixed results:
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Supporters argue that cameras reduce dangerous T-bone collisions caused by drivers running red lights.
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Opponents counter that while some collisions decrease, rear-end accidents often increase as drivers slam on their brakes to avoid tickets.
Safer Streets L.A. has published multiple reports claiming that Los Angeles’ red light cameras have not produced measurable safety improvements. Instead, they argue, the program simply transfers money from residents to an out-of-state corporation.
The Cost of Fighting a Ticket
In Los Angeles, getting caught by a red light camera can cost $490 or more once state fees are included. But that’s not all. Many drivers who challenge their citations end up spending thousands in legal fees. Some local traffic attorneys have become experts at fighting camera tickets, often getting them dismissed due to errors in the citation process.
These frequent court challenges are one reason the program is financially unsustainable. If drivers are beating tickets in court, the city and ATS are collecting less money, leaving taxpayers to cover the operating costs.
Why Other California Cities Shut Down Cameras
Los Angeles is not the only California city to face these challenges. In fact, more than 60 cities across the state have already abandoned their red light camera programs after facing similar problems. Cities like Berkeley, Pasadena, and San Diego found that the financial and political costs outweighed the benefits.
Opponents argue Los Angeles should follow suit, ending the program rather than extending it for several more years at a loss.
Legal Questions About Enforceability
Another wrinkle is the question of whether camera tickets are even enforceable under California law. While the state allows photo enforcement programs, courts have ruled that evidence must be reliable and drivers must be properly identified.
In some cases, drivers have successfully argued that mailed citations lack proper legal foundation because the officer who signs them did not personally witness the violation. These arguments, combined with public resentment, have further weakened support for the program.
Ethics and Public Trust
The LAPD and city officials have a responsibility not just to enforce traffic laws, but also to uphold public trust. Partnering with a company accused of questionable lobbying tactics raises concerns about transparency and accountability.
If residents believe cameras are more about money than safety, compliance drops and resentment grows. For programs like this to work, the public must view them as fair and effective.
What Happens Next?
The Los Angeles Board of Police Commissioners is scheduled to hold a meeting at 9:30 a.m. at the Police Administration Building, 100 West 1st Street, Los Angeles, CA. At that meeting, they will vote on whether to approve the LAPD’s request.
If the board votes against the contract, Los Angeles’ red light camera program could be shut down for good. If they approve, the city will continue paying millions to keep the cameras running—despite public opposition and financial losses.
The Bigger Picture
The fight over red light cameras in Los Angeles represents a larger debate happening nationwide. Cities across the United States are grappling with whether automated enforcement is the future of traffic safety or an outdated, ineffective cash grab.
Los Angeles, with its size and influence, could set an example for other municipalities. Ending the program might signal to other cities that it’s time to rethink photo enforcement altogether.
Conclusion
So, are traffic cameras legal in Los Angeles, California? Yes, they are allowed under state law—but legality doesn’t necessarily mean they make sense for the city. Between financial losses, ethical questions, legal challenges, and public opposition, the red light camera program faces a tough road ahead.
The upcoming Police Commission vote will determine whether Los Angeles doubles down on this controversial technology or joins dozens of other California cities in pulling the plug.
One thing is certain: the decision will affect not just drivers, but also the city’s reputation for balancing public safety with fairness and fiscal responsibility.
References:
Spokesman
Againstallclods
The Board of Police Commissioners meeting will take place at 9:30am at the Police Administration Building 100 West 1st Street. LA, CA. Safer Streets L.A. studies regarding red-light cameras can be viewed and downloaded for free at Saferstreetsla.org/reports