Florida red-light enforcement cameras proven to be effective

Recent results from the state of Florida cities of Pembroke Pines and Miami Gardens police departments show considerable decreases in crashes at intersections with safety cameras. For instance, in Miami Gardens, since the inception of the red-light safety camera programme, crashes have been reduced by 83 per cent at the 12 monitored intersections. Crash data from 2008 through October 2011 was closely examined and the city says it has achieved a steady reduction in collisions creating safer roads for the community.

“These cameras are helping modify driver behaviour dramatically,” said Miami Gardens police chief Matthew Boyd. “I believe that many people are now more cautious on the road and think twice before running a red-light.”

Meanwhile, in Pembroke Pines, based on recent findings, activation of a red-light safety camera at the S.W. 129th Avenue/Pines Boulevard intersection, suggest a 46 per cent decrease in the average annual number of traffic crashes. “This is a large reduction in average traffic collisions,” said Pembroke Pines police chief Dan Giustino. “A reduction in crashes translates into saving lives. This programme is working.”

According to the 2410 Federal Highway Administration, most communities with camera programmes will experience a reduction in red-light running violations ranging from 20-87 per cent, within about an eighteen month time frame of when an intersection safety camera program is implemented.