Quote:
Originally Posted by Ducay
You can pick and choose studies to prove either side of the argument, but at the end of the day if you've got people more aware, paying attention, and going slower through these intersections, its a win-win situation. I've gotten a couple of radar tickets and have adjusted my driving accordingly (slow down in these intersections and don't run the reds), so its clearly working.
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You're assuming everyone adjusts their driving style as you did. Some people don't care about the fines, and will just pay them (I know several people like this). Plus there is misunderstanding on how these cameras work, some people will hit the gas when the light turns amber, so they don't go through the intersection when the light is red. And to that point, I've noticed that at many intersections, even when going the speed limit, it is not difficult to end up having the light turn red before you cross the intersection. And there are other scenarios as well, if traffic is slow, you can EASILY go through a red light, which is really not your fault. What are you supposed to do. Stop at a green light, then floor the accelerator to get through the light before it turns? Good luck with that. The fact is, there are many traffic scenarios where you will go through a red light, but it is not dangerous. But you will be photographed and ticketed for it.
If the city really wants to reduce accidents, put a GIANT sign (not the little tiny ones they have now) that tells you the intersection is equipped with a camera. That way less people will speed though the intersection or run the light. What would be even better is having people pulled over by an Officer and given a ticket on the spot. This way you can issue demerits, and the impact is immediate. Getting something in the mail has far less impact. And like I said, for people that money is not much of an issue, they just pay and keep driving the same way.