The city is always looking to make some extra cash, and red-light cameras may be the newest answer, and it just might save lives.
This week the Daily News reported the city made $55 million from red-light fines last year. When asked about the figure, Mayor Michael Bloomberg told the New York Post he’d like to see even more of the cameras.
The case against red-light cameras covers many grounds. Some argue that the cameras violate drivers’ privacy. Others contend municipalities that use the cameras begin shortening the times of a yellow light so more tickets can be written.
Still, others contend that safety decreases at intersections with the cameras. In a 2008 study conducted by the University of South Florida, researchers found a significant spike in accidents after red-light cameras were installed. One popular theory is that drivers, once they realize there is a camera, slam on the brakes at yellow lights causing other vehicles to rear-end them.
There are some legitimate concerns, especially if the city shortens yellow lights to create more tickets, which would be illegal. However, we at The Forum can’t help but think most of the fight over red light cameras centers on a simple fact. Most drivers feel running a red light in the few minor seconds as the light turns or on dead intersections at the middle of the night is a victimless crime. And they’d like to continue doing it without fear of retribution.
Unfortunately, all it takes is one mistake, and your car, which should have been stopped at the light is hitting another car, or worse, a pedestrian. We at The Forum have said this before, but does getting to your destination a few minutes faster really justify potentially killing yourself or others?
And if that’s too hyperbolic, is it worth 50 bucks? Cause that’s what you’ll be paying if you happen to pick the wrong intersection.
