Small Cities in the US Apply for Intersection Cameras

Red-light runners are responsible for a lot of accidents worldwide, so authorities decided to install cameras in intersections throughout the US. And the program seems to have had quite a success, as it reduced red-light running by 96% at some intersections.

In an attempt to make their streets safer, small cities are happy with the idea of installing such cameras which cost the taxpayers nothing, as they are funded by the fines. Glouchester Township partnered with American Traffic Solution (ATS) and applied to the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) for permission to install intersection cameras.

“The Gloucester Township Police Department is looking forward to adding this additional level of road safety to our community,” said Chief Edward Smith, Gloucester Township Police.

“Our first step will be to work with ATS to identify the most dangerous intersections, in terms of red-light runners. We’ll analyze where in our 24-square-mile community the problem is the most acute and that’s where we’ll recommend the cameras be installed. We want to make it clear to local residents and visitors alike that running red lights in Gloucester Township is just not going to be tolerated.”

The local police is also involved in this program, as an officer will review and approve all potential violations captured by the cameras before ATS is given permission to mail the tickets to offenders.

“Red-light runners kill hundreds of people, injure more than 100,000 and cause millions in property damage each year in the United States,” said James Tuton, ATS’ president and CEO.

“Our experience nationally with intersection safety cameras is that they modify driver behavior dramatically. Fewer people are killed and injured because motorists know there will be financial consequences if they run red lights. After these programs are in operation for a period of time, people run fewer red lights and they actually speed less.”