HT asks readers for opinions about red-light cameras

March 05--Red-light cameras remain a source of contention between advocates who contend the photo enforcement devices reduce accidents and save lives and drivers who suspect the actual purpose, like that of so-called "speed traps," is to boost ticket revenue.

The Herald-Tribune asks its readers, many of whom may pass through camera-monitored intersections daily, to share their opinions. Send your remarks to [email protected]. Please include your name and the community in which you reside. Comments may be edited and published.

In a Feb. 26 article, the Herald-Tribune outlined the prolonged -- and still ongoing -- debate among politicians, local government officials, the insurance industry and others about whether the cameras are effective.

Although the city of Bradenton canceled its cameras contract, Manatee County and the city of Sarasota continue to rely on photo enforcement to cite red-light runners at several intersections within their jurisdictions.

Manatee County monitors whether violations and revenue are up or down from year to year but does not track whether its cameras are having an effect on reducing accidents. At the request of the Herald-Tribune, Sarasota Police compiled data that show fluctuating crash numbers from year to year for cameras at several of its intersections.

The National Motorists Association, the organization that successfully lobbied against the maximum national speed limit of 55 mph, opposes the cameras. It contends red-light running can otherwise be substantially reduced by adjusting the duration of yellow lights, as well as adding warning lights and improved signage.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety is a highly vocal advocate for cameras. It claims that, since the 1990s, its studies of major cities tend to show a 20 percent reduction in "serious crashes" at intersections with cameras.

What do you think? Do state and local governments, which share the fines, mainly regard the cameras as a source of revenue? Or, like security cameras, are red-light cameras a useful tool for law enforcement that enhance public safety and are likely here to stay?

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