Red Light Green Light: Traffic Cameras in Florida
New developments in technology are great for drivers; there are improved safety features, Bluetooth, and other hands-free conveniences that are made possible only through innovation. Technology also comes with a price, however. A $158 price to be exact, if you were one of the thousands of Floridians who received a red light ticket in the past year. Red light cameras are present in most states and are operating in more than 500 communities as of October 2014. These enforcement policies are designed to protect drivers and provide incentives to follow traffic signals to avoid accidents.
Automated Enforcement
This technology was designed to enforce traffic safety laws. Citing concerns of speeding, running red lights, and unlawful turns, these “red light” programs have since evolved into tracking other kinds of driver behavior, such as:
- Speeding;
- School zone violations (crosswalks, etc.);
- Failure to stop at a stop sign;
- Toll violations;
- Unlawful blocking of intersections;
- Failure to yield to pedestrians; and
- Failure to obey railroad crossing warnings.
These enforcement techniques are controversial and often challenged by drivers. The plaintiffs in a recent Florida lawsuit seek $5 million in damages to reimburse drivers that have been issued red light citations. Much like parking tickets, red light and similar enforcement cameras and sensors are generally issued to the registered owner of vehicle, regardless of who was driving at the time of the infraction. Also controversial are cameras that actually photograph a driver’s face in addition to vehicle identification information, such as the license plate. Some feel that their privacy is being violated in these scenarios and have challenged the laws on that basis.
Automated Enforcement in Florida
According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, Florida currently utilizes only red light technology on their roads. As is true in most jurisdictions, the citation is issued to the registered owner. The one good thing about these tickets is that they will not result in “points” on your driving record. Points are issued in Florida for speeding tickets or for accumulating multiple tickets within a designated period. Being issued a certain number of points within a certain limited time frame may result in your driver’s license being suspended. However, things such as red light tickets and parking tickets do not add points to a driver’s record in Florida.
Florida Driving Safety
Safe driving is the best way to avoid auto accidents that can have a potentially catastrophic, long-lasting impact on your life. Albeit controversial, these red light cameras are designed to help keep drivers safe on Florida roads. Unfortunately, no matter how careful you are, you cannot be responsible for the actions of other drivers. If you or anyone you know has been involved in an auto accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. Regardless of the circumstances surrounding the accident, it is critical that you understand your legal rights during this difficult time. Our experienced, knowledgeable, and understanding Miami car accident lawyers can help guide you through this process and assist you in reaching the best outcome for your unique situation. Contact Alan Goldfarb, P.A. to learn more about your legal rights today.
