Shorter Yellow Lights: A Safety Concern or Just Business

When you're approaching an intersection and the light suddenly turns yellow, your split-second decision—brake or go—can have major consequences. But what if that yellow light isn't giving you enough time to react safely? Many drivers and traffic safety advocates are raising concerns that shorter yellow light durations may not just be a safety issue but potentially a business tactic in disguise.

What Are Yellow Lights Supposed to Do?

Yellow lights are designed to provide a buffer period between green and red lights, giving drivers time to either safely stop or clear the intersection. According to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), the typical yellow light lasts between 3 to 6 seconds, depending on speed limits, road conditions, and traffic flow.

But what happens when that window is shortened?

The Link Between Yellow Light Duration and Accidents

Studies show that shorter yellow lights often lead to an increase in rear-end collisions. When drivers don’t have adequate time to react, they either slam on the brakes—risking a rear-end crash—or run the red light out of fear of sudden braking, increasing the chance of a T-bone accident.

Key finding:
A 2015 study from the Texas Transportation Institute found that lengthening yellow lights by just one second reduced red-light violations by up to 50%. That’s a massive improvement in safety—so why aren’t all cities adjusting?

Is It Really About Safety?

While safety should be the priority, many critics argue that shorter yellow lights may serve a more profitable purpose: increasing red-light camera citations.

The Business Side of Red-Light Cameras

Red-light cameras generate millions of dollars in fines for cities and municipalities. The shorter the yellow, the more likely drivers are to accidentally run a red light, triggering a citation. Some cities have faced lawsuits for allegedly shortening yellow light times below federal recommendations just to boost ticket revenue.

In one notorious case, a Chicago audit found that the city had shortened yellow lights by 0.3 seconds, which resulted in a spike in tickets and public outrage.

What You Can Do as a Driver

• Know the law in your area. Many states have minimum yellow light durations—stay informed.

• Drive defensively. Anticipate light changes, especially in areas known for red-light cameras.

• Challenge unfair tickets. If you suspect a short yellow light led to a citation, consider fighting it in court.

The Bigger Question

So, are shorter yellow lights a safety feature or a cash cow? The evidence suggests it’s often a mix of both—but with significant risks to driver safety.

If municipalities are truly committed to public safety, transparency and adherence to federal timing guidelines should be the standard—not an afterthought.

Final Thoughts

As the debate over traffic safety vs. revenue generation continues, one thing is clear: timing matters—especially when it comes to yellow lights. Whether you're a policymaker or a commuter, staying informed is the first step toward safer roads and fairer practices.

Do Red Light Running Cameras Really Reduce Crashes at Intersections?

Red light running cameras have been installed at busy intersections across the U.S. and other countries as a measure to reduce accidents caused by drivers running red lights. However, their effectiveness remains a topic of debate. Do these cameras actually reduce crashes, or are they simply revenue-generating tools for local governments? Let’s dive into the data and expert opinions to understand the real impact of red-light cameras on road safety. 

Get a Witness Statement When Fighting a Red Light Camera Ticket: A Guide to Strengthening Your Defense

Receiving a red light camera ticket can be frustrating, especially if you believe you were not in violation of the law. One effective way to bolster your defense is by obtaining a witness statement. This article will guide you through the process of getting a witness statement when contesting a red light camera ticket, explain why it matters, and provide tips on how to approach potential witnesses.

Understanding Red Light Camera Tickets

Red light cameras are automated systems designed to capture images of vehicles that run red lights. When you receive a ticket from a red light camera, it usually includes a photograph of your vehicle at the intersection, along with details about the time and date of the violation. However, these tickets can be contested under certain circumstances, such as:

• Disputing the accuracy of the camera
• Establishing that the light was yellow
• Proving that you were not the driver of the vehicle

Why a Witness Statement Matters

A witness statement can significantly strengthen your case for several reasons:

1. Corroborates Your Account: A witness can provide an independent account of the incident, helping to verify your claim that you did not run the red light or that the traffic signal was yellow.

2. Provides Additional Evidence: Witness statements can offer context that may not be captured in the camera footage, such as traffic conditions, visibility, and the behavior of other drivers.

3. Enhances Credibility: Having an unbiased third-party statement can enhance your credibility in the eyes of the court or the issuing authority.

Steps to Obtain a Witness Statement

1. Identify Potential Witnesses: Look for individuals who were present at the intersection when the alleged violation occurred. This may include:

   • Other drivers in nearby vehicles.
   • Pedestrians waiting to cross the street.
   • Passengers in your vehicle or in another vehicle.

2. Approach the Witness: Politely approach the potential witness and explain your situation. Be clear about the specifics of the incident and why you believe their account could be helpful.

3. Request a Written Statement: Ask the witness if they would be willing to provide a written statement detailing what they saw. Make sure to include:

   • The date and time of the incident.
   • A description of the events as they occurred.
   • Any relevant details, such as traffic conditions or the timing of the traffic signal.

4. Offer Contact Information: Provide your contact information so the witness can reach out if they have further questions or need clarification about the statement.

5. Be Respectful of Their Time: Understand that witnesses may be busy, and it’s essential to be respectful and patient as they consider your request.

How to Use the Witness Statement

Once you have obtained the witness statement, follow these steps to incorporate it into your defense:

1. Gather All Evidence: Collect the witness statement along with any other evidence you may have, such as photographs of the intersection, dashcam footage, or documentation of your driving record.

2. File Your Contestation: If contesting the ticket in court, submit the witness statement as part of your defense. Ensure that you comply with any local rules regarding evidence submission.

3. Prepare for Court: If your case goes to court, be ready to present your evidence clearly and coherently. You may also want to invite the witness to testify on your behalf.

4. Consult with Legal Experts: If you're unsure how to proceed, consider consulting with a traffic attorney. They can provide guidance on how best to utilize the witness statement and navigate the legal process.

Conclusion

Fighting a red light camera ticket can be challenging, but obtaining a witness statement is a proactive step that can significantly bolster your defense. By corroborating your account and providing additional context, a witness can help you present a compelling case. Always remember to be respectful when approaching potential witnesses and to gather all necessary evidence to strengthen your position. With the right approach, you can increase your chances of successfully contesting the ticket and avoiding fines.

Another article:  fight a red light camera ticket. 

The State of Florida Seeks Share of City Revenue from Cameras

Florida cities have long used red light cameras as a tool to promote traffic safety and reduce violations at dangerous intersections. These cameras generate significant revenue for local governments, funding various public services. However, the State of Florida is increasingly interested in obtaining a portion of this income, raising questions about the impact on local budgets and public safety initiatives. Here’s a look at why the state wants a share of red light camera revenue, what it means for Florida cities, and how it could affect residents. 

Why Does Florida Want Red Light Camera Revenue?

Why Traffic Gridlock Saves Lives

There Is a Positive Outcome to Gridlock

Traffic gridlock is a modern-day frustration that most drivers dread. Hours spent idling in traffic jams lead to lost productivity, increased fuel consumption, and stress. Yet, there is an unexpected silver lining to these congested roadways: they save lives. While it may seem counterintuitive, there are several ways in which traffic gridlock contributes to improved road safety and reduced fatalities.

Reduced Speed, Reduced Risk

One of the primary reasons gridlock saves lives is the significant reduction in vehicle speeds. When traffic is moving slowly, the chances of fatal accidents drop dramatically. High-speed collisions often result in severe injuries or death, whereas low-speed impacts are far less likely to have such devastating consequences. In gridlock conditions, vehicles rarely exceed 10 to 20 miles per hour, making it almost impossible for catastrophic accidents to occur.

Encouraging Safer Driving Habits

Gridlock forces drivers to pay closer attention to their surroundings. Navigating through stop-and-go traffic requires constant vigilance, reducing opportunities for reckless driving behaviors such as speeding, tailgating, or weaving between lanes. Additionally, drivers stuck in traffic are less likely to use their phones or engage in other distractions, as they must frequently stop and start.

Fewer Opportunities for Risk-Taking

Congested roadways limit the ability to engage in risky maneuvers such as rapid lane changes or excessive speeding. These behaviors are leading causes of accidents in free-flowing traffic. By making it physically impossible to drive aggressively, gridlock inadvertently promotes safer driving.

Pedestrian Safety Improvements

Pedestrians also benefit from traffic gridlock. Slower-moving vehicles provide greater opportunities for pedestrians to safely cross streets. Drivers traveling at lower speeds are more likely to notice and yield to pedestrians, reducing the likelihood of collisions.

Mitigating Environmental Risks

While idling cars contribute to air pollution, gridlock can indirectly encourage the use of public transportation, carpooling, and other eco-friendly travel methods. With fewer vehicles on the road due to shared commuting efforts, overall traffic volumes and risks decrease. This collective shift can lead to long-term improvements in road safety.

Supporting Long-Term Infrastructure Changes

Persistent gridlock often motivates cities and governments to invest in infrastructure improvements that enhance road safety. Initiatives such as expanded public transit options, bike lanes, and pedestrian-friendly urban planning are frequently implemented in response to chronic congestion. These changes not only alleviate gridlock but also create safer environments for all road users.

Conclusion: A Hidden Benefit

Although traffic gridlock can be a major inconvenience, it’s worth considering the unexpected benefits it provides. By reducing speeds, encouraging safer driving habits, and prompting infrastructure improvements, gridlock plays a subtle yet significant role in saving lives. As cities evolve and adapt to growing populations, understanding the unintended advantages of congestion can help shape smarter and safer transportation systems.

The next time you find yourself stuck in traffic, take a moment to reflect on the hidden benefits. While the frustration may remain, you can find solace in the fact that gridlock, in its own way, is contributing to a safer world for everyone.

List of 20 Red Light Camera System Manufacturers

There are several manufacturers of red light camera systems. Here are some notable companies in the field:

Redflex: Redflex is one of the leading providers of red light camera systems worldwide. They offer a range of solutions, including intersection enforcement cameras, speed enforcement cameras, and back-office software for managing the captured data.

American Traffic Solutions (ATS now Verra Mobility): ATS is another prominent manufacturer of red light camera systems. They specialize in advanced traffic enforcement technologies, including red light and speed enforcement cameras, as well as software solutions for data management and reporting.

Jenoptik: Jenoptik is a global technology group that provides various solutions for traffic enforcement, including red light camera systems. They offer state-of-the-art camera technology for reliable monitoring and enforcement at intersections.

Verra Mobility: Verra Mobility is a leading provider of traffic safety and enforcement solutions. They offer red light and speed camera systems, as well as integrated software platforms for managing the captured data and generating violation notices.

Sensys Gatso Group: Sensys Gatso is a company that specializes in traffic enforcement technologies. They provide red light camera systems, speed enforcement solutions, and other traffic safety equipment, along with software for data analysis and enforcement management.

Swarco: Swarco is a multinational company that offers a wide range of traffic management and control solutions. They provide red light camera systems, traffic signal control systems, and other related technologies.

Other examples of manufacturers in the field of red light camera systems:  

Optotraffic

Iteris

Traffic Technology Services (TTS)

Gatso USA

Traffic Logix

PIPS Technology (a subsidiary of Federal Signal Corporation)

WatchGuard Video

Miovision

TrafficVision (a subsidiary of Iteris)

Peek Traffic (acquired by Image Sensing Systems)

Comarco Products

TrafficLand

Applied Information

 

Please note that this is not an exhaustive list, and there may be other regional or local manufacturers that provide red light camera systems as well. 

Do Red Light Cameras Cause More Rear-End Crashes?

The impact of red light cameras on rear-end crashes:

Red Light Cameras About Tax or Safety First?

The primary purpose of red-light cameras is generally focused on safety rather than generating tax revenue. Red-light cameras are typically installed at intersections with a history of red-light violations and a higher risk of accidents. The intention behind their use is to discourage drivers from running red lights, which is a dangerous behavior that can lead to severe accidents and injuries.

The safety benefits associated with red-light cameras include reducing the number of T-bone collisions, improving intersection safety, and deterring red-light violations. Studies have shown that red-light cameras can contribute to a decrease in red-light running incidents and related crashes.

While red-light camera programs may generate revenue from the fines imposed on violators, the emphasis is typically placed on safety rather than using them as a revenue-generating tool. However, it is essential for communities and authorities to implement and maintain red-light camera programs transparently and with clear guidelines to ensure that the primary focus remains on improving road safety.

It's worth noting that the motivation behind red-light camera programs may vary depending on the jurisdiction, and there can be debates and discussions about their effectiveness and fairness. Public opinion and local policies can influence the implementation and operation of red-light camera programs in different regions.

Cameras May Enforce Texting While Driving

The city of Scottsdale, Arizona may take it a step further and is considering using its photo enforced cameras to enforce distracted driver laws. Photo enforcement cameras in Scottsdale are capable of detecting behavior such as text messaging or other “distracted driving” behavior, in addition to capturing speeders and red-light runners. But whether Scottsdale pursues such enforcement as part of a proposed text-messaging and distracted driving law remains to be seen. “We’re able to see people clearly on their cell phones,” said Josh Weiss, spokesman for American Traffic Solutions, the company that operates the fixed cameras and camera-equipped vans on Scottsdale surface streets.

On September 24th, 2008 the Governor of California, Arnold Schwarzenegger signed Senate Bill 28 (SB 28) into law. The new bill “Prohibits a person from driving a motor vehicle while using an electronic wireless communications device to write, send, or read a text-based communication." The new bill will impose a fine of $20 for the first offense and $50 for subsequent offenses starting January 1, 2009. No violation points will be given as a result of the offense and there are exceptions for emergency personnel.

The bill requires motorists to use hands-free devices while talking on a mobile phone when driving a motor vehicle. California motorists using cell phones have been required to use hands-free devices since July, and drivers under age 18 can't use any electronic devices. Seven other states and the District of Columbia ban text-messaging or the use of hand-held phones while driving, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.

6 Tips to Prepare Your Teen Child for Driving

Raising and understanding a teenager is one of the biggest challenges for parents nowadays. When your child reaches adolescence age, he goes through a lot of changes. This is the age when he meets his first love. Moreover, this is also the period when he will establish and end relationships, loudly expressing his emotions and opinions. Furthermore, one of the biggest dreams of a child, when he becomes a teenager, is taking the driver’s license and start driving. Having his own car and driving to and from different places gives teens the independence they are looking for. However, this is a period which brings a lot of concerns to parents. It is very important that your teen learns how to drive both for his safety but also for you as his parent. So, if you don’t know how to prepare your teen child for driving, keep reading this article and learn how to do it.

1. Set clear rules

You should set-up some clear rules and boundaries with your teen child before he starts the driving lessons. As this is a very serious situation, you should create a sort of contract with your child where you display each party’s obligations and benefits. For example, you can establish whether your child is allowed to take his friends with the car or travel during the night. What is more, you should check with the local authorities whether there are specific restrictions that apply to teen drivers. In addition, you should be very open with your son or daughter and clearly explain your expectations, detailing also the consequences that might appear in case he breaks the rules.

2. Practice makes it better

Driving is not something which should be treated with superficiality and your teen child should know this very well. Even though everything goes very well during the driving lessons, he will need hours of practice to master this skill. On the other hand, you should also show your child that you trust him. You can take an active role in teaching your child the tips and tricks you use while you are on the road and don’t overreact when he makes mistakes while driving. Your child should feel relax while driving with you on his side. In addition, you should carefully choose the driving school based on their experience in working with teens and availability to offer driving lessons on various types of road and diverse driving conditions.

3. Stress the importance of safe & prepared driving

Safety should be your teen child’s first priority. Therefore, you should stress how important it is to wear seatbelts because it's the law, and its a matter of life and death.  Know where the hazardous intersections are located and try to avoid them.  Explain to your child how easily he can be distracted by electronic devices while driving. For example, you can ask him to turn his phone off so that he won’t be tempted to answer phone calls or text messages. The marketing manager of one of the most popular college writing services recommends that parents should take their children to behind-the-wheels lessons regularly and help them learn from their mistakes.

4. Driving while tired can be extremely dangerous

Fatigue is one of the major causes of car accidents. Sometimes, it is even more dangerous than a drunk driver. Whenever your teen child goes out with the car, you should carefully check if he is well-rested, isn’t upset, and doesn’t have any distractions around him which could put him in danger. Moreover, you should establish together with him a maximum hour when he is allowed to drive at night. Whenever he passes this hour, he should either come at home immediately or stop in the city where he is and get a room to rest. This will help your teen child stay disciplined and follow healthy sleeping habits which will help him react faster when they encounter unusual situations on the road.

5. Give your teen driver a reliable vehicle

Even though your teen child has the necessary skills and makes you trust his abilities, you should also put some efforts from your side. Before giving your teen child a luxurious car that will offer him the necessary comfort, you should first think of his safety. Therefore, when you choose the car for your child, you should check if it is in good condition and works perfectly. Furthermore, you should also teach your teen child how to operate the mirrors, safety systems, knobs, seat, and other car features which can keep him safe.

6. Track the progress

Teaching your teen child how to stay safe on the road is just the beginning. This doesn’t mean that once he learns how to drive, your work and responsibility is done. You should be permanently available to discuss any issues that he has on the road. For example, you can have a regular meeting weekly where you can discuss the situations he encountered while driving and give him advice on how to handle that situation the next time. Furthermore, you can travel with him as the passenger during the first drives and encourage him that he does a great job. Finally, you should set a balance between being over-protective and acting as a responsible parent. You can use several devices to track his speed on the road or check where he goes. However, you should use them only if your child feels comfortable with him and you have a prior discussion about this topic.

It is very important that your child learns to drive on warm weather and in a calm environment. He doesn’t need stress and pressure during driving lessons so that he can stay focused on the road and learn all the tips and tricks presented by the trainer. As a parent, you should put all your efforts into providing your car a safe car and advise him whenever he encounters an uncommon situation.

Red Light Camera Tickets Are Going Unpaid

Some people may choose not to pay the fines for various reasons, such as disagreement with the program, financial constraints, or other personal factors. Unpaid red light camera tickets can have consequences depending on local laws and enforcement practices. In some jurisdictions, unpaid tickets may lead to additional fines, late payment penalties, or other legal actions such as vehicle registration holds or potential impacts on credit scores. However, the specific consequences can vary by jurisdiction, so it is advisable to consult the traffic laws and regulations in your specific area to understand the implications of unpaid red-light camera tickets.

A growing percentage of drivers caught by red-light cameras around town aren't paying for their tickets. But beyond sending their names to a collection agency, there's little the city of Columbus can do to collect that money.   Nearly $1.6 million in Columbus, Missouri much of which would go to the city's public safety department. The department has used these fines to pay for new police cruisers and the city's summer-crime strike force.

Last year, 28 percent of all red-light-camera citations issued by Columbus were sent to a collection agency, up from 12 percent in 2007. Part of any funds collected now would go to the collection agency and Redflex, which operates the cameras for the city. The poor economy might be one reason why drivers aren't paying, said Deputy Public Safety Director George Speaks. A $95 ticket is a big hit.  But once your ticket is sent to a collection agency, the fine grows to $120. If you don't pay, the city will send you a notice. After 90 days, your case is sent to Capital Recovery, a collection agency. Running a red light is a civil infraction that doesn't add points to your license.

Capital Recovery collects about 17 percent of the delinquent violations the city sends its way, said Craig Klein, the company's president. He said the national collection rate in civil cases such as these is less than 10 percent. "The only way to attack it is to file lawsuits," Klein said. But that would likely cost the city more than it's worth, said City Attorney Richard C. Pfeiffer. If the problem grows, he'll consider it. Speaks said city officials are discussing reporting scofflaws to credit agencies.

Stephanie Palmer, a victims advocate in Pfeiffer's office, has three unpaid tickets. Two offenses were captured by the camera at Livingston and Fairwood Avenues. The tickets say Palmer didn't stop completely before turning on red. "I'm not sure if I didn't come to a complete stop," she said. "Usually I'm pretty good." In all, there are 169 individuals, companies, and agencies with three or more outstanding citations, totaling close to 900 unpaid tickets.

The biggest offender is the holding company for Avis and Budget rental cars. That company is responsible for 144 unpaid tickets. University Area Commissioner Ahmed Ebady has five unpaid tickets. He said contractors who maintain his residential properties and drive vehicles registered in his name must be responsible. "If the city is going to come after me for a moving violation, let them come up with proof who was driving," Ebady said.

Speaks said the cameras reduce crashes. He said right-angle crashes have fallen by 73 percent at the 18 intersections where cameras have been installed. "The system works," he said.

How Many People Are Injured Each Year By Drivers Running Red Lights?

Most Dangerous Cities Drivers Running Red Lights

Researchers found that violations dropped by 36% after yellow lights were extended to give drivers more warning that the light was about to turn red. After red light cameras were added, the remaining violations dropped by 96%.  

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in the United States, running red lights is a significant cause of traffic collisions and injuries. While I don't have access to the most recent statistics, I can provide you with some general information based on historical data.

In 2019, the NHTSA reported that there were 846 fatalities and an estimated 139,000 injuries caused by red-light running collisions in the United States. These numbers include not only the drivers who ran the red lights but also occupants of other vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists who were involved in these incidents.

Extending the duration of yellow lights at traffic intersections can be an effective measure for reducing red light violations. Research studies have indeed shown that extending the duration of yellow lights can lead to a decrease in violations and subsequent red light running incidents.

One notable study conducted by the Texas Transportation Institute in 2004 examined the impact of extended yellow signal timings at intersections. The study found that when yellow light durations were increased by just one second, red light violations decreased by an average of 36%.

The reason behind this reduction is that a longer yellow light duration provides drivers with more time to react and safely come to a stop before the light turns red. It allows drivers to make informed decisions and reduces the likelihood of last-minute attempts to cross the intersection.

These findings support the idea that adjusting signal timings, including extending the duration of yellow lights, can have a positive impact on traffic safety by reducing red light violations and related collisions. Implementing such changes requires careful analysis, considering factors such as intersection design, traffic flow, and driver behavior to determine appropriate signal timings that promote safety and efficiency.

Cameras Now Used For Crime Prevention & Surveillance

It was recently announced that Washington DC trumped Chicago in the sheer volume of photo enforcement. As reported by Photoenforced.com: "They now have by far the most speed cameras, stop sign cameras and red light cameras per capital." While this is certainly good news when it comes to keeping the roads and motorists of the city safer, there are also much wider implications. Currently, Washington along with some other major US cities, are beginning to shift focus on their approaches to crime where cameras are concerned - real-time monitoring in particular becoming a goal of Washington law enforcement. As a result, it’s likely that we’ll begin to see cameras used in a far more broader role when it comes to crime prevention and criminal enforcement, but there could be other implications.

Cameras and Crime

While we may often assume that road and traffic cameras are essentially in place to capture and deter traffic-related crimes, modern police are becoming much more reliant on cameras as a general tool for combating crime. Washington police, in particular, are increasingly focusing their efforts around captured surveillance footage. In fact, according to rt.com "Law enforcement is looking to get real-time access in order to put the entire city on constant watch." This is of course, a divisive issue. The police department is aware of how valuable resource cameras are, and this is perhaps even more relevant in Washington given the huge amount of cameras that are in place in the city. Having greater access, especially real-time monitoring, could see a huge increase in crime prevention. As stated in the Washington Post, cameras are already a fundamental tool in combating crime for local police forces: "Investigators retrieved video from the Metropolitan Police Department’s 123 closed-circuit television cameras and the District’s network of red light and Department of Transportation cameras 931 times in fiscal 2012 - an increase of 15 percent over the previous year, according to police department data.". While some opponents to an increased level of surveillance argue that real-time monitoring and additional use of cameras is a breach of civil rights, the numbers do clearly show that police are finding cameras increasingly crucial in investigations.

Prevention and Statistics

One of the problems facing both sides of this debate, however, is the actual data on camera effectiveness. While Washington Police, for example, may have increased their use of cameras, what evidence is there that they are an effective tool? As explained by Syracuse.com: "The biggest problem may be the systems are too new: experts say the lasting impact of cameras may not be known until several years worth of data can be analyzed. Generally, the studies that have been conducted have found that premeditated crimes do tend to decline, but crimes of passion are not affected as much."  Cameras may certainly help police after the event but are unlikely to be an effective deterrent for a desperate addict. This is one potential problem, but on the other hand, being able to monitor in real-time could allow police to take the action they need. That said, drug enforcement, in particular, is itself seeing a shift in focus, as stated by the Washington Post: "Four decades after the federal government declared war on narcotics, the prevailing tough-on-drugs mentality is giving way to a more nuanced view, one that empathizes treatment and health nearly as much as courtrooms and law enforcement, according to addiction specialists and other experts."

Effectiveness

One of the major questions that remain is just how effective will the increased use of cameras be? While in Washington there has been a huge surge in the number of cameras, there are certainly ways for motorists to be aware of where cameras are and whether they are working already. Conversely, there are also devices that streamline the camera and toll process available at many retailers. Ultimately, the evidence does suggest that cameras, whether traffic-related or otherwise, are having a profound effect on crime and criminal enforcement. How Washington proceeds could be an indicator of things to come for the rest of the US.

10 Reasons Why Roundabouts Are Safer Than Red Light Intersections

Anyone who has traveled to Europe understands the convenience of driving without traffic lights and the improvement in traffic flow.  Cities all over the US are beginning to convert traditional unsafe red light camera intersections to roundabouts for several reasons. Converting traditional red light camera intersections to roundabouts eliminates the need for traffic signals as well as cameras and has many benefits listed below.  It has been reported that conversion of traditional intersections to roundabouts reduces fatal crashes by 81-90 percent, injury crashes by 25-87 percent, and overall crashes by 37-61 percent. However, it is not feasible to replace every traffic light with a roundabout, and not every intersection is appropriate for a roundabout.  Ready more about roundabouts saving lives. 

1. Up to a 90% reduction in fatalities, 76% reduction in injury crashes, 30-40% reduction in pedestrian crashes
2. Reduces the severity of crashes
3. 75% fewer conflict points than four way intersections 
4. Drivers have more time to judge and react to other cars or pedestrians
5. Slower vehicle speeds (under 30 mph) 
6. Efficient traffic flow 30-50% increase in traffic capacity
7. Improved traffic flow for intersections that handle a high number of left turns
8. No signal equipment to install and repair savings estimated at an average of $5,000 per year in electricity and maintenance costs
9. Service life of a roundabout is 25 years (vs. the 10-year service life of signal equipment)
10. Aesthetic landscaping

Who is Explore Data Information Services?

Explore Data Information Services is an Altegrity company. Altegrity is a conglomeration of companies to help their customers reduce risk, maximize opportunities, and make better decisions by gathering, processing, and analyzing information; sharing our subject matter expertise, and providing our proven training techniques. Altegrity companies include:

Can Wireless Regulate Hazardous Driving?

Can Wireless Regulate Hazardous Driving?

Written by: J. Gerry Purdy of MobileTrax, 4/28/2010

With a topic like this, I absolutely have to say I believe in speed limits, and I support the hard-working and often not appreciated public safety officers that help deal with accidents and problems that deserve their attention.

However, when you consider the time that highway patrol officers and local police officers spend on the side of the road with a radar gun simply to manage those who are driving above the speed limit, it’s easy to see that this is not a good, efficient way for these public safety officers to deal with the problems of society -- especially when there are so many drug problems and serious crimes that need greater attention.

The nature of a ‘speed limit’ has become accepted in society as a ‘guideline’ – a general indicator of the speed that people should travel. Of course, unless you’ve been a recluse at home for the past few years, drivers on major Interstate highways almost never drive slower than the posted speed limits. Most states have established laws that define ‘speeding’ as a driver and the car exceeding the posted speed limit by 10 mph. Thus, if the posted sign says 65 mph, then most of the time you won’t get pulled over for a speeding ticket when doing 74 mph. Bad weather and driving congestion naturally alter the average speed downward.

When I see these ‘speed traps,’ I get mad -- but not for the reason you might think. I’m not upset that police officers are trying to catch speeders. Rather, I’m upset because these paid guardians of our public safety are wasting so much of their valuable time having to sit on the side of the road just to give out a few tickets to those who are driving too fast.

I believe there’s a much better solution, and there’s already an indication that systems are coming into place that may eliminate the need for any highway patrol officer to ever worry about simple vehicle speed enforcement again.

Here’s the way I believe this new solution should work in the long term. All cars will have multiple transmitting radios -- from Wi-Fi to 3G or 4G cellular to mesh networking -- so that cars can network with each other and be connected to the highway patrol. Most cars have a toll sensor in the window as well that isn’t active but does allow the car to be recognized when it passes a toll booth or toll lane.

There are two basic driver issues that need to be addressed: 1) those that speed and 2) those who drive recklessly.

Regarding driving recklessly (or appearing to do that via something wrong with the car) should be dealt with via intervention. First, the local wireless mesh should result in vehicles self-programmed to get out of the way. Second, the local police and highway patrol should have the right to intervene and stop the car. We’ve all seen situations where two cars are racing each other or someone is participating in ‘road rage’ with someone else by trying to get out ahead and then cut them off, using their car as a weapon. These situations can easily be detected. Once that happens, the local police or highway patrol should take over control of the car and pull them safely over to the side of the road.

For those that want to go faster than the posted speed limit, e.g. they want to drive 80 mph in a 65 mph zone, it seems we should change the entire process of scolding violators to automatically generating revenue for the privilege of driving faster and getting to your destination more quickly. Once cars are outfitted with wireless communications, public safety can communicate with each car, and the cars (and trucks) can then also communicate with each other (via mesh networking).

Here’s the core recommendation: each state sets up a ‘speed tax’ that is posted (and available on the displays in the wireless-enabled vehicles). Then, cars that speed are simply charged a fee based on how fast they are going. Want to get to grandma’s faster? OK, drive 75 mph instead of 65 mph, but you’ll have to pay a toll (which might be called euphemistically a ‘speed tax’) for doing that. The speed tax schedule could look something like this:

* Less than 40 mph, $1 per mile (yes, charge people for going too slow)
* 40 to 65 mph, $0
* 65-69 mph, $.10 per mile in town, $.05 out of town
* 70-74 mph, $.20 per mile in town, $.10 out of town
* 75-79 mph, $.50 per mile in town, $.15 out of town
* 80-84 mph, $1.00 per mile in town, $.20 out of town
* 85-90 mph, $2.00 per mile in town, $.25 out of town
* Greater than 90, the vehicle is slowed down by the highway patrol or permission must be granted by the public safety officials, e.g. an emergency.

Thus, if you need to drive 200 miles to grandma’s house but wanted to drive at 80 mph, you’d get charged 200 miles at $.20/mile or $40 for the privilege to do so.

You can see part of these systems already in place in Florida were coming out of Miami, you can get access to the SunPass extra lanes that are not as crowded. The Florida Turnpike system adjusts the charge to use the extra lanes based on the time of day. Thus, during rush hour the charge is typical $2.75 and off-peak it’s $.35. While they don’t charge for the speed you are driving yet, there’s no reason they couldn’t add that capability in the future. And, its developments like this that lead to lanes that can charge for access and then charge you for the speed you drive in the special lanes.

And perhaps 50 years from now, all cars will have wireless, we’ll be able to eliminate speed traps, and highway patrol officers can utilize more of their available time to truly helping with public safety. Wireless technology will be used to charge for the right to drive faster. Speeding tickets will morph into a speed tax, while having the ability to prevent unsafe conditions that cause a multitude of accidents.

Blinding Flashes a Nuisance for Motorists

Red-light cameras have become a nuisance for some motorists in the area of Interstate 25 and Lincoln Avenue in Lone Tree, Colorado.

Lone Tree Voice By Chris Michlewicz, Published: 02.12.10

Authorities expect the devices to reduce accidents and traffic congestion. Those who drive along Lincoln Avenue near the I-25 interchange might have seen the bright flashes of light coming from bulbs mounted on light poles at Lincoln and Park Meadows Drive and Lincoln and the highway’s northbound off-ramp, known as San Luis Street. The intersections were identified in a study as problem areas: Lincoln and Park Meadows Drive for congestion, and Lincoln and San Luis for frequent crashes. Lone Tree officials decided to correct the problem by enlisting the services of American Traffic Solutions, which installed and maintains the cameras, prepares violation notices, provides the software for violation approval, and collects fines on behalf of the city’s police department.

Since the first set of cameras was placed at Lincoln and Park Meadows Drive in July 2008, Lone Tree has collected $218,000 in fines. That includes numbers from the second and third sets of cameras, which were installed in November. The cameras, however, have proven effective. There is less bottlenecking at the Lincoln and Park Meadows Drive intersection, an issue that caused major back-ups for eastbound and westbound traffic on Lincoln. Statistics on the number of accidents are not yet available, said Sgt. Scott Cavenah, traffic supervisor for the Lone Tree Police Department.

But some motorists are upset about what they call blinding flashes of light, even when there are no vehicles in the intersection. Parker resident David Wilson said he became aware of the cameras as he sat at a red light on westbound Lincoln last summer. While he applauds efforts to improve safety, Wilson believes the cameras could eventually end up causing an accident. “What I can’t understand is the random timing of the photos being taken,” he said. “I watched it flash twice when there was no one even violating the law.” A city spokesperson attributed the “random” flashes to the system “recalibrating” itself. Wilson said the flashes can be distracting to motorists, especially out-of-towners who might not be aware they are present.

The Lincoln and San Luis intersection was found to be a hotspot for regular violations. The study found a high accident rate, a large number of violations during the research period, and significant congestion. Furthermore, officers could not effectively work at the intersection because of its design. Cavenah has collected data on the intersection but said the numbers are too preliminary to determine whether the red-light cameras have been effective. “A better comparison can be made once we get at least one-year’s worth of data to review,” he said in an update sent via e-mail. The annual expense to Lone Tree for all three cameras is $180,000. The city ultimately hopes to gain voluntary compliance with the traffic laws and maintain better traffic flow in the area.

Wilson would prefer to see the cameras removed, but expects to see more of them in the Denver metro area in the coming years. “Unfortunately, I think things are going that way,” he said. “They are the cops. They can pretty much do whatever they want.”

How To Beat A Red Light Camera Ticket In Bad Weather Conditions?

We frequently receive emails from drivers who ask us if they will receive a ticket in a blizzard, rainstorm, or during poor weather conditions. These drivers usually plead that they couldn't stop safely before the intersection because of ice or water on the road. It is our understanding that police officers don't suspend red light cameras during bad weather, however, someone does review videos of each infraction and evaluates whether a ticket should be issued. Officers will take into consideration if the driver made a legitimate attempt to stop and didn't stop at the line.

If you think you may have received an unjustified ticket sometimes a successful defense some have used in court is the 'out of necessity' defense for running the red light. This defense basically brings the idea of a dangerous situation at hand. When you tried to come to a stop, your car began to slide on ice or water and you had no choice but to run the red light. You could go on to say that by going through the red light, it was actually safer to have done so as opposed to sliding uncontrollably into traffic, stopped vehicles, or pedestrians. Pictures would go a long way here. It is recommended to drive back to the scene as soon as possible and return with a camera. Take pictures of the icy or wet road and anything else that could boost your story's credibility.

We would appreciate hearing stories from drivers below in the comments section of the blog who received a ticket during poor weather conditions and contested the ticket.

Views From Both Sides Of The Road

Supporters of red light cameras say…

• According to the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (IIHS), drivers who run red lights account for 22% of all traffic accidents in the United States.
• An IIHS study in Oxnard, California showed that red-light running violations dropped 42% after red light cameras were introduced. A similar study in Fairfax, Virginia showed violations declined 40% after one year after.
• Publicity of red light cameras deters violations.
• Red-light cameras don’t have biases and therefore drivers cannot be unfairly profiled.
• Privacy issues are null because of the public setting. Also, only people violating the law are photographed.
• They make lots of money for cities in need of revenue.

Those who oppose the use of red-light cameras say . . . 

• The owner might not have been driving the car, yet they are mailed the owner of the ticket.
• Cameras increase other types of accidents, such as rear-ending collisions, when people notice the camera and make hasty decisions to avoid ticketing. A Virginia Transportation Research Council study shows an increase in accidents with the installment of red light cameras.
• Longer yellow lights can make intersections much safer, in an easy and inexpensive way (check out the findings of the Texas Transportation Institute)
• There is no standardization of yellow light duration and several cities have been caught shortening them around a red light camera to increase revenue.
• Insurance companies (including IIHS) support red-light cameras because more tickets mean they can raise insurance rates
• The accused receive notification weeks after the violation and there are no human witnesses to analyze the whole situation.
  
• They are expensive to operate and service the tickets in our court system.
  
• There are not stands to the fines through the U.S. which range from $50-$400.

Thank you to our friends at Beat The Traffic Blog for putting together this info . . .

Red Light Cameras - About Money or Safety?

5 Studies have shown that red-light cameras increase accidents. I have always contended that driving through an intersection that has a red light camera changes your behavior. It makes you more hesitant to go through the intersection if you sense the light is going to change and also makes you want to speed up if you think you might be on the long side of a yellow light. Nervous driving does not create a safer driving environment for everyone.