Lawmakers Seek Ban Red Light Cameras

Many communities have instituted the use of red light cameras. These cameras are installed at intersections with the intent of catching drivers who fail to stop at red lights. The camera captures the image of any vehicle which enters the intersection after the light has turned red. The photo is then used as evidence of the driver’s failure to stop and the driver then receives a ticket or citation in the mail. Many independent studies, however, have concluded that these red light cameras actually contribute to more traffic accidents, and there is movement in many states, including Illinois, to ban the cameras.

The Illinois House of Representatives recently approved House Bill 173 by a vote of 79-26. The bill, if passed, would ban red light cameras non-home rule communities. Currently, the cameras are in 35 different non-home rule communities in Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, Madison, McHenry, St. Clair and Will counties. If the bill passes the Senate and is signed into law by the Governor, it would not affect the red light cameras which are in Chicago, since that city is a home rule community.

Proponents of the bill say that studies have shown that the cameras increase the risk of accidents by up to 22 percent. Illinois lawmakers, who say they voted to approve the cameras& use several years ago, have expressed regret in allowing the cameras, and feel as if they were not given accurate information regarding the dangers the cameras pose.

Many groups and organizations who oppose the red light cameras say that greed is being put before safety and that the communities who keep the cameras are more interested in the revenue that is being collected than the safety of the public. The Chicago Tribune conducted an investigation in the citys red light program that revealed a $2 million bribery scheme and resulted in federal indictments.

Studies and investigations which have been conducted that revealed a substantial increase in traffic accidents when there are red light cameras installed include:

• Australian Road Research Board; and
• KCAL Los Angeles;

If you have been injured in an accident that occurred at an intersection where there was a red light camera, contact an experienced Lake County injury attorney to find out what compensation you may be entitled to for your pain and loss.