CURRENT NEWS - 2009 - 2010 - 2011 - 2012 NEWS ARCHIVES
News
The latest headlines from the world of photo enforcement. Updated almost daily...
Traffic Camera Company Demands $600,000 From Florida County
Dec. 21, 2011 TheNewspaper.com - ArticleExcerpt:
Increasingly desperate red light camera firms are taking advantage of strict contractual language in an attempt to prevent local governments from dumping their ticketing programs. Manatee County, Florida grew disenchanted with automated ticketing after signing a contract with Affiliated Computer Services (ACS), but the firm will not let the county government unplug the cameras unless it is paid $603,344.38. County commissioners yesterday moved to ignore the threat and drop the contract.
Colorado: Auditor Blasts Denver Photo Ticketing Program
Dec. 20, 2011 TheNewspaper.com - ArticleExcerpt:
After performing a thorough performance audit, Denver, Colorado's city auditor is no longer convinced of the value of red light cameras and speed cameras. The Denver Police Department (DPD) deputized the Dallas-based firm Affiliated Computer Services (ACS, a division of Xerox) to issue red light tickets at four intersections and speeding tickets throughout the city with five roaming vans. The program has little more to show for itself than a profitable bottom line.
[Sammamish] City Council doesn’t like the idea of traffic cameras
Dec. 19, 2011 Sammamish Review - ArticleExcerpt:
At a Dec. 13 City Council study session, Sammamish Police Chief Nate Elledge recommended against installing the cameras in the city, citing their potential costs, the impersonal approach to police work and a skeptical public.
Manatee may step back from red-light cameras
Dec. 18, 2011 Herald Tribune - ArticleExcerpt:
MANATEE COUNTY - While surrounding cities and counties are adding red-light cameras, Manatee County may totally abandon its photo enforcement program to catch red-light runners.
Class-action suit brewing over red-light cameras
Dec. 14, 2011 Victorville Daily Press - ArticleExcerpt:
VICTORVILLE • A local attorney has sent notice that he intends to file a class action lawsuit against the city of Victorville and Redflex Traffic Systems unless changes are made with the way red-light cameras are handled here.
Robert Conaway, a criminal defense attorney from Barstow, is demanding that the two parties stop issuing tickets and that Redflex let Victorville out of its red-light camera contract. Otherwise, Conaway said he will sue unless the city begins paying San Bernardino County Sheriff’s deputies to watch the live video feed and issue tickets as they occur, then appear in court to testify regarding the violations.
Pasadena, California May Dump Red Light Cameras
Dec. 9, 2011 TheNewspaper.com - ArticleExcerpt:
Major cities across the country have begun having second thoughts about photo enforcement. In California especially, heightened public scrutiny of red light camera programs and lower than expected profits have turned city councils against automated ticketing programs. On Monday, top city officials in Pasadena recommended against renewing their red light camera contract. When neighboring Los Angeles dropped its program in July, the news made nationwide headlines.
List of Public Votes Against Red Light Cameras and Speed Cameras
Dec. 5, 2011 TheNewspaper.com - ArticleExcerpt:
A total of 768,917 voters across nine states have gone to the polls to cast a ballot in favor or against the use of photo enforcement. The vast majority have said "no" to red light cameras and speed cameras.
Syracuse puts the brakes on plans for red light cameras
Nov. 27, 2011 Syracuse.com - ArticleExcerpt:
The city has shelved a plan to install cameras at stop lights to catch violators and ticket them.
"As other cities are running away from this, why would we run into it?" said Bill Ryan, Mayor Stephanie Miner’s chief of staff.
Safety cameras 'flawed'
Nov. 27, 2011 The Star - ArticleExcerpt:
Campaigners today branded South Yorkshire’s network of cameras 'flawed' and 'unnecessary' after The Star revealed how much money they are making.
Claire Armstrong, spokesperson for the national Safe Speed campaign group, said: “Since only five per cent of accidents nationally have excessive speed as a contributory factor, including those accidents which are "too fast for conditions" but below the speed limit, we can see how utterly over-the-top and unnecessary speed cameras are.
Maryland: Innocence Not a Defense to Speed Camera Citations
Nov. 22, 2011 TheNewspaper.com - ArticleExcerpt:
Prince George's County, Maryland judges are tired of complaints that photo enforcement citations are inaccurate or otherwise invalid. To speed proceedings on "speed camera day" when automated citation cases are heard, at least one judge is cautioning motorists not to bother attempting to prove their innocence, regardless of the merit of their argument.
Voters in Seven Cities Reject Photo Enforcement
Nov. 9, 2011 TheNewspaper.com - ArticleExcerpt:
Voters in eight cities in three states cast ballots Tuesday to decide whether red light cameras and speed cameras should be used in their communities. Seven of the races went against the use of photo ticketing.
Carroll: Put a stop to red-light cameras
Nov. 9, 2011 Denver Post - ArticleExcerpt:
Denver has a new mayor, newly named police chief and a council with six new members. Maybe it's time for all of them to take a fresh look at the city's photo radar program, which is apparently issuing thousands of tickets every year that have nothing to do with public safety.
Chicago Speed Cameras: Emanuel Exaggerates Safety Impact, Downplays Projected Revenue
Nov. 8, 2011 Huffington Post - ArticleExcerpt:
But the incidents the mayor cited both occurred at intersections that wouldn't have speed cameras under the current terms in Emanuel's legislation, the Tribune reports.
City councilors vote to end red light cameras
Nov. 7, 2011 KOB - ArticleExcerpt:
The Albuquerque City Council voted on the fate of the city's red light cameras Monday night.
City councilors decided on a five-to-four vote to axe the contract with camera operator, Redflex.
Would speed cameras really save lives?
Nov. 6, 2011 Chicago Tribune - ArticleExcerpt:
Mayor Rahm Emanuel says he wants speed cameras legalized in the city to protect kids from being mowed down by cars, but federal data suggest the effort may have a limited impact on reducing fatalities.
Chicago logged 251 pedestrian fatalities between 2005 and 2009, but fewer than half occurred in the "safety zones" where cameras would be allowed to operate under Emanuel's plan, and fewer than half of those involved speeding.
The same statistics show that two-thirds of speed-related deaths involving pedestrians age 18 or under also happened outside Emanuel's proposed enforcement zone — 8 of 12 in all.
Monroe says it may pull traffic cameras because of repeated errors on citations
Nov 4, 2011 Herald Net - ArticleExcerpt:
MONROE -- The city of Monroe may move to terminate its contract for traffic-enforcement cameras, officials confirmed Friday.
The decision was based on the company's failure to meet performance standards, Monroe police spokeswoman Debbie Willis said. The company repeatedly sent out violation notices that had typos, omitted words and contained other errors.
Texas Town Sees Accidents Skyrocket After Red Light Cameras Installed
Nov. 4, 2011 WarOnDriving.com - ArticleExcerpt:
The green light ticket along with accident numbers have been released to Schirmbeck, which prove that not only was the ticket issued illegally, but also accident numbers have gone from near zero, prior to camera installation to 350% increases in some intersections.
Another Florida City Settles Suit Over Illegal Photo Ticketing
Nov. 2, 2011 TheNewspaper.com - ArticleExcerpt:
Many Florida municipalities now regret jumping the gun and installing red light cameras before the state legislature authorized their use in 2010. The Hallandale Beach city commission will vote later today to approve a settlement of $375,566 to be repaid to vehicle owners who were mailed tickets before the program was actually legal. American Traffic Solutions (ATS), which controlled the program, will pay $43,221 -- its proportional share of the amount.
California: Red Light Camera Ban Qualifies for Murrieta Ballot
Oct. 28, 2011 TheNewspaper.com - ArticleExcerpt:
Red light cameras are to be put to the test once more in California. Local activists succeeded in gathering enough verified signatures to qualify a photo enforcement ban for the ballot in Murrieta next year. The city council will decide Tuesday whether to adopt the initiative text as an ordinance or turn the matter over to voters to decide whether machines should continue issuing $483 citations at city intersections.
Colorado Springs pulls plug on red light cameras
Oct. 27, 2011 KDVR.com - ArticleExcerpt:
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. -- Drivers in Colorado Springs will be pleased with the city's decision to ditch its red light camera program.
Interim police chief Pete Carey says the program isn't improving traffic safety.
NO CAMERAS: Norwalk Leaders Vote Against Red Light & Speed Cameras
Oct. 27, 2011 WHOtv.com - ArticleExcerpt:
But even with the study, city council voted against the cameras. Councilman Dave Murillo says he believes people are sick of what he calls government big brother. "The overwhelming message we hear from people across the country today, not just in Norwalk, they're tired of government getting in their pocketbook," Murillo says, "People are taxed to the max. They're sick and tired of giving almost 50-percent of their income to government. They're sick of government."
Miami gives Redflex the Boot
Oct. 27, 2011 ArizonaSilverBelt.com - ArticleExcerpt:
Miami — The Town Council sent Redflex packing in a unanimous vote Monday night.
The public hearing included a smooth presentation by Redflex representative Darren Kolack.
It took citizens a little less than an hour to present the council with a petition against Redflex signed by over 700 people.
'Grassroots' group campaigning for traffic cameras is financed by camera company: Road Rant
Oct. 20, 2011 Cleveland.com - ArticleExcerpt:
Safe Roads Ohio believes in the benefits of traffic cameras. Why wouldn't it? Money made from cameras bankrolls the "grassroots" political action committee.
State records show that the year-old organization -- which is lobbying for photo enforcement programs in Garfield Heights and South Euclid -- has been financed almost entirely by Redflex Traffic Systems. The corporation, not so coincidentally, provided and profited from traffic cameras used in both communities.
Swiss motorcyclist gets speeding ticket while crashing
Oct. 16, 2011 Autoblog.com - ArticleExcerpt:
If you're a follower of the right-foot-down school of highway consumption, you've probably seen what happens when drivers spot speed traps. They slam on their brakes, traffic bows up and inattentive drivers go careening toward the rear of your vehicle. That principle applies globally.
Motorcyclist Boris Maier was riding near Bern, Switzerland when he was ticketed by a speed camera for traveling 107 km/h in an 80 km/h zone. Unfortunately for him, he was also off his bike at the time.
Bluff City faces $6 million lawsuit over speed camera enforcement program
Oct. 15, 2011 Knox News - ArticleExcerpt:
An Upper East Tennessee town's already troubled traffic camera enforcement program has hit another speed bump — a federal proposed class-action lawsuit.
Attorney Dan Stanley has filed on behalf of motorists Chris Cawood and Jonathan Kelly Proffitt a $6 million proposed class-action lawsuit against Bluff City and its mayor, Irene Wells, and the Arizona-based traffic camera firm American Traffic Solutions Inc.
Fake Speeding Tickets Harass New Yorkers Via Email
Oct. 14, 2011 MakeUseOf.com - ArticleExcerpt:
Nobody likes to be informed that they’ve received a speeding ticket, but in today’s world of speed cameras and intersection flash-blubs, the practice of receiving a ticket without encountering a cop is becoming more common. Some enterprising ne’re-do-wells have apparently decided to take this to their advantage, and are now spreading a virus via fake email speeding tickets.
City Council plans to end contract with traffic-camera vendor
Oct. 13, 2011 Redmond Reporter - ArticleExcerpt:
City leaders plan to pull the plug on red-light cameras.
The Redmond City Council directed Mayor John Marchione to sever the contract with city's traffic-enforcement camera vendor and develop a school-zone camera program with a new vendor at Tuesday's study session at City Hall.
City wiped out 500 red-light camera tickets
Oct. 8, 2011 Napa Valley Register - ArticleExcerpt:
More than 500 red-light camera tickets from last spring and early summer were dismissed on request by the city of Napa after Superior Court Judge Diane Price affirmed her May ruling that the city’s old contract with its camera provider violated state vehicular law.
Voters Saying No To Red Light Cameras [In Albuquerque]
Oct. 5, 2011 KOAT.com - ArticleExcerpt:
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. -- After years of controversy, voters packed the polls on Tuesday to decide the fate of red light cameras.
With about 87 percent of the precincts reporting, the vote to end the red light camera program is winning by 53 to 47 percent.
DFW cities hit roadblock in collecting red-light fines
Oct. 5, 2011 Star Telegram - ArticleExcerpt:
Millions of dollars in red-light tickets in Tarrant County are going unpaid, and cities haven't been able to do much about it.
Texas City Works with Traffic Camera Company to Nullify Anti-Camera Vote
Oct. 3, 2011 TheNewspaper.com - ArticleExcerpt:
A red light camera company and officials in the city of Baytown, Texas are conspiring to nullify the results of an election. In November, 58 percent of voters approved a ballot measure prohibiting the use of red light cameras unless a police officer is present to witness any alleged offense. American Traffic Solutions (ATS) filed suit in February to overturn the result of this vote, and city officials on September 22 asked Harris County Judge Michael D. Miller to sign off on a settlement of this suit that was prepared by ATS.
Washington: City Goes All Out To Defend Dangerous Camera Program
Sep. 29, 2011 TheNewspaper.com - ArticleExcerpt:
The city of Redmond, Washington decided last week that it had no intention of putting the issue of red light cameras and speed cameras to a vote of the people. The mayor refuses to transmit the completed petition signatures for an initiative on the topic to the county auditor, despite a state law that sets a three-day deadline for the city administration to do so. On Tuesday, Redmond police released data that show accidents have increased since at the photo enforced locations since the program started in February.
Ethics Complaint Filed Against Red-Light Camera Committee
Sep. 29, 2011 KOAT.com - ArticleExcerpt:
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. -- One City Council member said an election group in support of Albuquerque’s red-light cameras is blatantly violating the law.
Red light camera scam warning
Sep. 27, 2011 azfamily.com - Article
Italy: More Indictments in Photo Enforcement Scandal
Sep. 26, 2011 Sowetan Live - ArticleExcerpt:
The National Prosecuting Authority said the application of Traffic Management Technology by Mpumalanga for speed enforcement was illegal.
The announcement places the province in a predicament since the provincial traffic department cannot prove that cameras were manned by a traffic officer.
Italy: More Indictments in Photo Enforcement Scandal
Sep. 23, 2011 TheNewspaper.com - ArticleExcerpt:
An Italian court ruled Tuesday that a group of mayors, police officers and speed camera company employees would stand for trial four months from now on charges of criminal conspiracy, fraud, embezzlement, abuse of office. Judge Anna Rosa Capuozzo ruled that fifteen individuals should be indicted.
Vienna Police Warn Against Red Light Camera Scam
Sep. 23, 2011 Vienna Patch - ArticleExcerpt:
Vienna Police are warning residents against a scam in which callers claim they're overdue on a summons for a red light violation captured by camera surveillance.
The Red-Light Camera Circus
Sep. 22, 2011 HoustonPress.com - ArticleExcerpt:
"Let me make sure that you folks understand," Kubosh says in a low growl. "This will never go away." It's August 2, 2011, and Kubosh is talking about the red-light camera issue, one he and his brothers have been fighting since long before the cameras went up in 2006.
Councilman questions validity of Redflex contract
Sep. 13, 2011 TheAdvertiser.com - ArticleExcerpt:
A Lafayette City-Parish councilman questioned the validity of the city-parish government’s contract with Redflex Traffic Systems during a Tuesday budget hearing.
Redflex the only player paying to sway voters on red light camera initiative
Sep. 11, 2011 KOB.com - ArticleExcerpt:
A campaign to convince Albuquerque voters to support the red light cameras on an Oct. 3 ballot initiative has been bankrolled by the company that profits millions from the fines.
Campaign finance reports (see below) show Redflex, the company that operates the cameras, donated $45,000 to Safe Roads Albuquerque.
Class-action suit against Jefferson Parish redlight cameras sends notices to those who paid fines
Sep. 9, 2011 NOLA.com - ArticleExcerpt:
Drivers who ran afoul of Jefferson Parish's red-light camera system are receiving some news in the mail this week: a notice that the class-action lawsuit seeking to recoup the fines they paid is moving forward.
The notices were sent to about 145,000 people in the two-year-old suit against Redflex Traffic Systems, the Phoenix, Ariz., company that owns the cameras.
MORENO VALLEY: Residents question lone red light camera
Sep. 9, 2011 The Press-Enterprise.com - ArticleExcerpt:
On Day Street at Canyon Springs Parkway, directly in front of a sign that reads "Welcome to Moreno Valley," is something city officials there already have decided is not welcome: a red light enforcement camera.
Washington: Traffic Camera Company Runs Press Relations for Lynnwood
Sep. 9, 2011 TheNewspaper.com - ArticleExcerpt:
The distinction between employees for a private photo enforcement firm and taxpayer-funded public servants blurred in the city of Lynnwood, Washington. Emails between city officials and American Traffic Solutions (ATS) suggest a cozy relationship developed where both sides were willing to perform the duties of the other in terms of marketing and public relations.
Initiatives to End Photo Enforcement Scheduled for Upcoming Elections
Sep. 2, 2011 TheNewspaper.com - ArticleExcerpt:
Voters in at least seven cities will soon have a chance to decide whether to prohibit the use of red light cameras and speed cameras. Initiatives are being certified for the ballot in five states across the country, despite an all-out effort by photo ticketing firms to block any public role in the matter. Early voting is already underway in Albuquerque, New Mexico for the October 4 municipal election.
Another California City Joins Red Light Camera Revolt
Aug. 29, 2011 TheNewspaper.com - ArticleExcerpt:
A fourth city in Orange County, California is poised to outlaw the use of red light cameras. Earlier this month the Laguna Niguel city council voted 4-1 on first reading of a measure that would prohibit the use of automated ticketing machines in the future -- the city has never allowed camera vendors to operate on its streets.
Traffic is calmer, but are drivers? Police tout successes, but speed SUVs draw criticsim
Aug. 27, 2011 SantaFeNewMexican.com - ArticleExcerpt:
Some locals have very negative feelings about the Big Brother-esque nature of being videotaped as they drive. There are constant gripes that the cost of a citation — $100 — is too high. And some Santa Feans complain that too much of the money collected goes to an out-of-state, for-profit company. One person who received a citation called the hearing process a "no-win proposition that is a total scam."
Rider killed braking for a speed camera
Aug. 26, 2011 MotoCycleNews.com - ArticleExcerpt:
A motorcyclist was killed after braking too hard for a speed camera, a coroner said.
Timothy Rowsell, 64, was doing at least 78mph on a Suzuki GSX-R1000 as he approached the speed camera van on a 50mph road.
Houston, Texas Pulls Plug on Red Light Camera Program
Aug. 25, 2011 TheNewspaper.com - ArticleExcerpt:
The long battle over the red light camera program in Houston, Texas ended Wednesday. The city council voted 14-1 to repeal the ordinance that granted American Traffic Solutions (ATS) the right to issue automated tickets at fifty intersections throughout the country's fourth largest city.
Redflex Reports Drop in US Traffic Camera Revenue
Aug. 24, 2011 TheNewspaper.com - ArticleExcerpt:
Opponents of red light cameras and speed cameras have had an impact on the bottom line of one of the world's largest photo enforcement providers. Redflex Traffic Systems reported a "slowdown in the level of new contracts signed" that dragged the firm's US traffic camera revenue down $2.4 million in the 2011 financial year. Redflex lost $1.5 million worth of US contracts this year.
Photo radar operator hurt in crash
Aug. 18, 2011 CBC News - ArticleExcerpt:
Two people were sent to hospital after a car crashed into a parked vehicle conducting photo radar in Winnipeg.
Emails raise questions about city's dependancy on cameras
Aug. 19, 2011 Q13Fox.com - Article
Washington Judge Issues $10,000 Ticket Against Red Light Camera Firm
Aug. 18, 2011 TheNewspaper.com - ArticleExcerpt:
A Whatcom County, Washington Superior Court Judge yesterday threw the book at a photo enforcement firm for interfering with the right of the public to petition their government. Judge Ira Uhrig handed down from the bench a stinging rebuke to American Traffic Solutions (ATS). Uhrig found the firm's lawsuit to block an anti-traffic camera initiative from reaching the ballot in Bellingham violated state law, so he slapped the Arizona-based firm with a $10,000 fine and ordered it to pay the legal fees of the initiative's sponsors.
Australia: Speed Camera Deployments Examined
Aug. 9, 2011 TheNewspaper.com - ArticleExcerpt:
The auditor general for New South Wales, Australia last month issued a report on speed camera use in the state. The Liberal Party government had ordered the review after it took power at the end of March. Following the results, thirty-eight camera locations have been taken offline.
The audit's formal definition of a "successful" speed camera location included those places where there was no change in the number of accidents at all. The analysis found that 141 fixed speed camera locations, only 40 had statistically significant accident reductions, 38 had increases and 63 saw no significant change. This distribution of variation in crash rates is consistent with the assumption that cameras have no effect at all.
Washington: Traffic Camera Executive Orchestrated Anti-Voter Suit
Aug. 8, 2011 TheNewspaper.com - ArticleExcerpt:
In another set of emails from April, Kroske derided Mukilteo Public Works Director Larry Waters because he had stated in writing to the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) that there was no accident data that would justify installing red light cameras.
"I cannot believe this idiot sent this to WSDOT," Kroske wrote. "I may have torpedoed the project. Hold up any further work on the submission until I hear from the mayor or city manager. With the engineer on record against it, I expect it will be difficult to get approval from WSDOT."
Traffic camera company sought Mukilteo officials' help in filing lawsuit
Aug. 7, 2011 Cleveland.com - ArticleExcerpt:
Petition targets East Cleveland traffic cameras
Aug. 7, 2011 Herald Net - ArticleExcerpt:
MUKILTEO -- A former vice president for an Arizona-based traffic enforcement-camera company last year tried to enlist Mukilteo's mayor in finding somebody from the community "to use" in bringing a lawsuit that attempted to block a vote on an anti-camera initiative.
A Fine Mess
Aug. 3, 2011 The Independnt Weekly - ArticleExcerpt:
Nearing its fourth anniversary monitoring — and busting — lead-footed Lafayette motorists, the SafeLight/SafeSpeed program is racking up millions of dollars in fines. But getting violators to pay is another matter entirely.
Houston Residents Unload on City Council Over Red Light Decision
Aug. 3, 2011 TheNewspaper.com - ArticleExcerpt:
Hundreds of Houston, Texas residents swarmed the city council chambers yesterday to complain about the reactivation of red light cameras. Voters in November enacted a charter amendment banning the use of automated ticketing machines, but a federal judge worked with the city attorney and vendor American Traffic Solutions (ATS) to nullify the election so that the cameras could come back.
Los Angeles, California Red Light Camera Program Officially Canceled
Jul. 28, 2011 TheNewspaper.com - ArticleJul. 28, 2011 New York Times - Article
Excerpt:
Red light cameras are coming down in Los Angeles, California after midnight on Sunday. The city council yesterday voted unanimously to drop the program primarily over the county court system's refusal to enforce unpaid tickets, depriving the city of millions in expected revenue. The council instructed the city attorney to work with American Traffic Solutions (ATS) to decide the cheapest way to remove the systems and process all tickets issued through the end of the month.
Tucson adding traffic camera as other cities dump theirs
Jul. 28, 2011 KOLD - ArticleExcerpt:
Though in an interview with KOLD last year, TPD traffic Lt. Lew Bentley told us the city's first red light cameras were really paying off.
"As people realized that those were there and started slowing down, the tickets went way down," Bentley said. "That's what we were looking at...slowing down, no more tickets, less collisions, less crashes."
Since then, it's unclear how well the cameras have faired, since collisions are actually up at some intersections, while being down at others.
Red-light camera plans halted in St. Helens
Jul. 27, 2011 South County Spotlight - ArticleExcerpt:
St. Helens City Council has ceased the city’s year-long plan to install red-light photo enforcement cameras at intersections along Highway 30, nixing a contract with Australian company Redflex.
Scuttling plans for the red-light enforcement cameras comes as little surprise to those within the city, including primary proponent Police Chief Steve Salle, who called the issue of red-light cameras "polarizing."
Drivers can disregard red-light camera tickets in L.A.
Jul. 27, 2011 LA Times - ArticleExcerpt:
Motorists who get tickets under the city's controversial red-light camera program can shrug them off, Los Angeles officials agreed Monday.
That was one of the few points of consensus to emerge from a three-hour City Council committee hearing on the future of the much-debated photo enforcement system. The session ended with a recommendation to stop issuing citations at the end of the month and "phase out" the program.
California City to Vote on Banning Red Light Cameras
Jul. 16, 2011 TheNewspaper.com - ArticleExcerpt:
A third jurisdiction in Orange County, California is taking steps to ban the use of red light cameras. Later today the city council in Orange will vote on the first reading of an ordinance that would deter future councils from considering the devices. The city of 136,000 residents has never used photo enforcement, but the council unanimously directed the city attorney's office in October to come up with the most effective language to deter future councils from considering them.
South Euclid residents sign petitions to put traffic camera issue on November ballot
Jul. 26, 2011 Cleveland.com - ArticleExcerpt:
Sheridan Road resident Grant McCallum on July 25 turned in at city hall the signatures of 1,076 residents on petitions aimed at eliminating the use of cameras, without police officers present, as a means of issuing traffic tickets.
Tennessee: Man Sues Traffic Camera Company Over Double Billing
Jul. 19, 2011 TheNewspaper.com - ArticleExcerpt:
On November 16, 2009, Church received a notice in the mail from Redflex claiming his car had run a red light in the town of Jonesborough. On the same day, Church mailed payment of the $88.75 fine. Redflex which cashed the check. On March 13, 2010, Redflex sent a second notice insisting that Church pay again or be reported to a collection agency. Church states he faced "coarse and abrupt opposition and accusation" when he called the company to resolve the situation. The next day, a Redflex employee told Church he was to be reported to a credit bureau for non-payment.
California: More Cities Dropping Red Light Cameras
Jul. 18, 2011 TheNewspaper.com - ArticleExcerpt:
Three Southern California cities are taking steps to rid themselves of red light cameras. In Westminster, the city council decided unanimously on Wednesday to ask voters to ban the use of red light cameras in a referendum scheduled for November 2012.
GRAND TERRACE: Red-light cameras to shut down
Jul. 14, 2011 The Press-Enterprise - ArticleExcerpt:
The Grand Terrace City Council has decided to send an early message to motorists that red-light cameras will be switched off next summer.
Photo radar operator escapes injury after targeted attack
Jul. 13, 2011 GlobalSaskatoon.com - ArticleExcerpt:
Police are investigating what might be a string of attacks on photo radar vehicles.
There have been three separate incidents in Edmonton over the last week involving the vehicles, the most recent happened Monday night.
Several rocks were thrown at a photo radar vehicle, and then a large rock was lobbed at the windshield.
Cities questioning future of red-light cameras
Jul. 12, 2011 Sun Sentinel - ArticleExcerpt:
Officials in Pembroke Pines and Fort Lauderdale are considering ending their programs; the Broward County Commission is still split on whether photo enforcement was ever a good idea. Delray Beach decided to hold off on a program until the legal challenges are settled.
"The legal problems have turned out to be much worse than I anticipated," said Broward County Commissioner John Rodstrom. "I thought it would be bad, but not this bad. They've had to hire prosecutors; they've had to take police off the street to testify, only to lose. Everyone thought this was a get-rich-quick scheme. The whole thing has been a disaster."
Tempe traffic cameras to turn off next week
Jul. 11, 2011 AZCentral.com - ArticleExcerpt:
Traffic cameras on Arizona freeways went dark last year. Now it's lights out in Tempe, too.
But last week, the Tempe council voted 4-3 not to renew the city's contract with traffic-camera provider Redflex Traffic Systems.
Police search for man who attacked speed camera on BW Parkway
Jul. 6, 2011 WJLA - ArticleExcerpt:
Traffic was shut down on the BW Parkway at MD-195 for hours Wednesday after a man attacked a vehicle with a hammer. The man was also armed with a shotgun, authorities said.
US Supreme Court Confirms Confrontation Right in Radar, DUI Cases
Jun. 24, 2011 TheNewspaper.com - ArticleExcerpt:
In a decision that has wide-ranging implications for photo enforcement, speeding tickets and driving under the influence of alcohol (DUI) charges, the US Supreme Court yesterday reconfirmed the Sixth Amendment right to confront one's accuser applies to analysts who claim to have certified evidence from a machine. The 5-4 decision concluded that "stand-in" expert witnesses are not a substitute for the individuals who actually conducted the tests. The decision broadens the applicability of the landmark Melendez-Diaz ruling from 2009, which has already led to appellate division cases in four California counties to throw out red light camera evidence.
Reward offered over speed camera arson attacks in Lincolnshire
Jun. 24, 2011 ThisIsLincolnshire.co.uk - ArticleExcerpt:
A REWARD for information leading to the arrest and conviction of people carrying out arson attacks on speed cameras is being offered.
Crimestoppers is offering the reward after 15 of the 50 speed cameras in Lincolnshire were attacked.
Traffic Camera Companies Step Up Fight Against Ballot Measures
Jun. 23, 2011 TheNewspaper.com - ArticleExcerpt:
Traffic camera companies fight initiative measures in Washington and Houston. Vote on camera ban advances in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Public To Vote On Red-Light Cameras (Albuquerque)
Jun. 21, 2011 KOAT - ArticleExcerpt:
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. -- The future of the red-light program is Albuquerque is officially in the hands of voters.
On Monday, the City Council voted to put the red-light camera issue on the ballot during October’s special election.
Bellingham anti-camera initiative backers submit nearly 7,000 signatures
Jun. 20, 2011 The News Tribune - ArticleExcerpt:
BELLINGHAM - Supporters of the initiative restricting traffic-enforcement cameras turned in nearly 7,000 signatures Monday, June 20.
They need 3,880 valid signatures from Bellingham voters to qualify for the November ballot.
"I'm really excited we got just shy of 7,000," said Johnny Weaver, a member of Transportation Safety Coalition, which backed the initiative. "I think that sends a really big message to the City Council and all of the politicians to allow it to go to the vote."
Spokane judge strikes down red light cameras
Jun. 18, 2011 Seattle Times - ArticleExcerpt:
A ruling by a Spokane Superior Court judge has put a dent on the city's practice of using electronic officer signatures on infractions caught by red light cameras.
Friday's ruling by Superior Court Judge Jerome Leveque overturns a previous decision by a municipal court that found no legal problem with the method used by the Spokane Police Department. Currently, an electronic signature is used by the Arizona-based private company that sends out the infractions.
"This ruling basically invalidates the whole system as of today," said attorney Dean Chuang.
Florida City Agrees to Refund Illegal Red Light Camera Tickets
Jun. 17, 2011 TheNewspaper.com - ArticleExcerpt:
Some Florida [cities] are beginning to regret jumping on the red light camera bandwagon without bothering to wait for state legislative approval. On Wednesday, the Pembroke Pines city commission voted to approve a settlement with attorney Jason D. Weisser who filed a lawsuit against a number of towns that began automated ticketing before state law was changed last July to allow automated ticketing.
Napa suspends enforcement of red-light cameras
Jun 13, 2011 Napa Valley Register - ArticleExcerpt:
Speeding through one of Napa’s four red-light camera intersections might still trigger a camera flash, but there will be no citation following in the mail.
The city has suspended its red-light camera program following a judge’s May ruling that deemed the cameras illegal, said City Manager Mike Parness. For now, the cameras flash but citations are not being processed.
No camera needed for this ticket
Jun 12, 2011 STL Today - ArticleExcerpt:
RANDOLPH COUNTY • In his sales pitch for speed cameras, John Baine has invoked the dangers of excessive speeding and the camera's role in "calming" the aggressive driver.
But on Aug. 26 of last year, Baine, co-founder of B&W Sensors, was himself clocked going 70 mph through a construction zone on U.S. Highway 63 north of Columbia, Mo. The posted speed limit was 50 mph.
Judge rules Napa red-light cameras are illegal
Jun 1, 2011 Napa Valley Register - ArticleExcerpt:
Napa's red-light camera program, which has drawn the ire of thousands of motorists and the Napa County grand jury alike, is illegal, a Napa County Superior Court judge ruled Friday.
Diane Price, presiding judge of the Napa County Superior Court's Appellate Division, ruled that the 2008 contract between the city and Arizona-based Redflex violated state vehicular law.
Sioux City woman crashes into I-29 speed camera
Jun 1, 2011 Sioux City Journal - ArticleExcerpt:
Sioux City police Lt. Mark Kirkpatrick said Samantha McNamara, 22, of Sioux City, became distracted by the sight of flooding along the Missouri River and lost control of her 2003 Oldsmobile passenger car. The vehicle ran into an orange traffic barrel before it struck a Redflex speed camera.
Speed ends traffic camera man's career
May. 26, 2011 Herald Sun - ArticleExcerpt:
Stuart Rollo, who was employed by Serco, the company contracted by Victoria Police to operate speed cameras, has lost an unfair dismissal claim after being busted repeatedly speeding in company cars.
"(His) speed was recorded at 102km/h in a 50km/h zone and further 80km/h in a 50 km/h zone," Fair Work Australia found.
Missouri: Judge Finds Red Light Camera Program Illegal
May. 24, 2011 TheNewspaper.com - ArticleExcerpt:
A circuit court judge in St. Louis, Missouri on Friday ruled the city's use of automated ticketing machines violated state law. Since 2007, St. Louis gave the private company American Traffic Solutions (ATS) the right to issue tickets worth more than $30 million to the registered owners of vehicles that are photographed at local intersections. A class action suit by several motorists challenged the program on various legal and constitutional grounds.
Red light cameras: Company under fire for web posts | 137 local infractions dismissed due to error
May. 23, 2011 FederalWayMirror.com - ArticleExcerpt:
"There were a number of violators that were receiving mail from ATS indicating they had not responded in a timely manner, and some of them were receiving mail indicating they were about to be taken to collections," McCall said. "We contacted ATS and had some lengthy conversations about their practices. (ATS) realized what was going on fairly quickly and they corrected the problem."
McCall said 137 citizens were affected by ATS and its mail issues. McCall said those 137 infractions were dismissed, at the request of the city attorney.
Motorists caught by road sign switch ‘prank’
May. 19, 2011 Yorkshire Post - ArticleExcerpt:
Pranksters who replaced a 30mph sign with a 40mph one in a speed camera zone have been branded "crassly irresponsible."
Hundreds of motorists may have been caught by speed cameras after practical jokers put up a sign near a camera in Woodside Road at Wyke – one of the main routes into Bradford.
Massachusetts: Another Town Meeting Rejects Red Light Cameras
May. 18, 2011 TheNewspaper.com - ArticleExcerpt:
Another Massachusetts jurisdiction that uses the broadly representative "town meeting" form of government has said "no" to the use of red light cameras. Residents gathered at the annual meeting in Raynham on Monday voted 104 to 95 against the idea of petitioning the legislature for permission to install automated ticketing machines. The town has a population of about 11,000, and all qualified inhabitants are allowed to vote.
SV tickets rejected
May. 11, 2011 Payson Roundup - ArticleExcerpt:
On Wednesday, a Payson superior court judge reversed two lower court speeding tickets.
Karen Buoy-Jestis and Ann Scavarda appealed their traffic citations, arguing Star Valley’s attorney violated ethical standards when he acted as both a prosecutor and witness in court.
Ridgeland camera ban moves forward
May. 11, 2011 Savannah Now - ArticleExcerpt:
COLUMBIA -- Speed-camera advocates aired their convictions Wednesday before a House subcommittee, but they were unable to reverse support for the proposed camera ban.
Effort to restrict red light cameras picking up speed maybe
May. 5, 2011 Hernando Today - ArticleExcerpt:
TALLAHASSEE Support is slowly rolling in from Senators for an amended traffic bill that would limit where red light cameras are installed and eliminate ticketing drivers for turning right on red lights.
Rather than fight a losing battle to win support for a bill to eliminate red light cameras statewide, House members approved amending a Senate transportation bill that would require proof that cameras are needed at an intersection and end ticketing drivers for turning right on a red light without coming to a complete stop.
Investigation: Are red light tickets worthless too?
May. 4, 2011 KWGN - ArticleExcerpt:
DENVER -- First we told you that the mailed Photo Radar tickets are not legally binding unless they are personally served—that means physically handed to you—and the city only has 90 days to “serve” your ticket.
Otherwise, it’s automatically dismissed, according to a Colorado state statute that most people have never read.
Now, due to an overwhelming viewer response, and more than a hundred phone calls and emails asking if the same law applied to the red light tickets—we went looking for an answer.
Missouri: County Government Erases Red Light Camera Ordinance
May. 4, 2011 TheNewspaper.com - ArticleExcerpt:
For Jefferson County, Missouri, it was not enough to force a red light camera company to pack its bags and leave the area. Commissioners last week wiped the books clean, unanimously repealing the ordinance adopted last summer that had authorized the use of automated ticketing machines in the unincorporated parts of the county.
Florida House Votes to Ban Red Light Cameras
May. 3, 2011 TheNewspaper.com - ArticleExcerpt:
Less than a year after the Florida legislature enacted legislation authorizing the use of photo enforcement, the state House of Representatives wants to reverse course. By a 59 to 57 vote yesterday lawmakers approved a bill repealing the provisions of the Mark Wandall Act.
Florida House Votes to Ban Red Light Cameras
May. 2, 2011 NOLA.com - ArticleExcerpt:
As dozens of cameras atop white poles continue to stand dormant at intersections throughout Jefferson Parish, the court disputes about their legitimacy to ticket drivers running stop lights are quietly moving forward.
Automated Speed Cameras Face Statewide Ban
Apr. 28, 2011 The Pelican Post - ArticleExcerpt:
BATON ROUGE, La - As Louisiana municipalities struggle to mend their financial straits, New Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu may soon be without one of his most productive, yet controversial revenue generators: automated speed cameras.
Photo radar tickets may not be worth the paper they're written on
Apr. 28, 2011 KWGN - ArticleExcerpt:
DENVER - FOX31 Denver caught photo radar vans running red lights, speeding, and parking illegally on sidewalks all across the metro area, but no matter how many times FOX 31 Denver confronted the Photo Radar van operators they continued to break the law to enforce the law, and the van operator’s seem to think they can disregard our questions.
So how would you like to disregard your photo radar ticket?
Criminal Defense attorney, Gary Pirosko says it’s easier than you might think.
ITraffic pressures Ridgeland
Apr. 26, 2011 Bluffton Today - ArticleExcerpt:
RIDGELAND - iTraffic had a problem, a "very petty situation," according to the company’s chief executive, but a problem nonetheless.
In September, iTraffic CEO Nickey Maxey emailed Ridgeland town officials, an attorney and his business partner about a state inquiry into iTraffic’s photo-radar enforcement system on Interstate 95.
S.C. Court Administration, an arm of the Supreme Court chief justice, was concerned about how the system was being operated.
No clear pattern to the burning of speed vans
Apr. 16, 2011 Irish Times - ArticleExcerpt:
The first incident occurred in Co Louth last November. The driver had parked his survey van at Milltown, on the Carrickmacross-Dundalk road, in the early hours of November 26th to assess the area’s suitability to be used by a working speed-camera van. The attacker smashed the front window and set the vehicle on fire.
On the evening of March 13th another GoSafe van was destroyed by fire during a similar incident when it was checking speeds on the old N11, south of Arklow. Most recently, early last Saturday morning a van was destroyed in an arson attack at Cashel in Co Donegal, on the Carndonagh–Quigley’s Point road. In each case the occupant scrambled to safety.
Judge's Ruling Aids Case Against MRCA's Stop-Sign Cameras
Apr. 14, 2011 Palisades Post - ArticleExcerpt:
Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Carl West ruled on December 14 that a case against the Mountains Recreation Conservation Authority's (MRCA) use of stop-sign cameras could proceed. West's ruling is the precursor to a trial that could begin as early as this summer.
At issue is whether the MRCA must follow the California Vehicle Code on park roadways. Currently, $175 fines are levied under an administrative citation when motorists are photographed by cameras for failure to come to a complete stop at designated MRCA stop signs. There are five cameras at three park locations: two in Temescal Gateway Park, two in Franklin Canyon Park and one in Topanga.
Australia: Employee Alters Traffic Camera Ticket Data
Apr. 14, 2011 TheNewspaper.com - ArticleExcerpt:
The employee of a photo enforcement firm in Victoria, Australia was arrested yesterday for adjusting the speed readings in a database of photo tickets. Police believe the man identified as a 36-year-old from Craigieburn changed the date, time and speed reading on a total of 67,541 red light camera and speed camera tickets. The data were altered between February and March while the man worked for Serco, the private firm in charge of ticketing operations.
Biker died 'braking for speed camera'
Apr. 11, 2011 Metro.co.uk - ArticleExcerpt:
The 64-year-old was thrown from his 1,000cc Suzuki after spotting the van where the speed limit changes from 50mph to 70mph.
'It looks like the motorcyclist came over a slight hill in the road, saw the camera van, hit the brakes and crashed into the central reservation,’ said a motorist.
New legal challenge to red light cameras
Apr. 1, 2011 KGO-TV - ArticleExcerpt:
DALY CITY, Calif. (KGO) -- A driver who was caught by one of those red light cameras in Daly City took the case to court, and the result might affect future cases.
Conforti hired lawyer Ellen Mendelson. She claims Daly City's contract with the camera maker Redflex violates the state vehicle code, specifically the regulation of these signs warning drivers there are red light cameras ahead.
"The way the contract is written, Redflex is responsible for inspecting and maintaining it and that violates the law," Mendelson said.
Last Friday, it went to trial. She says the commissioner agreed with her and dismissed the ticket. Mendelson says other Daly City ticketholders now have a legal reason to fight their cases.
Legislative Update: Four States Advance Traffic Camera Modification Bills
Apr. 1, 2011 TheNewspaper.com - ArticleExcerpt:
Lawmakers in four states this week advanced legislation that would, if passed, either place mild restrictions on or outright ban the use of automated ticketing machines by municipalities. The Florida state Senate Transportation Committee on Tuesday voted 4 to 2 to approve an outright prohibition on the use of red light cameras -- just one year after the legislature had given in to the lobbying effort of localities in authorizing their use. Senate Bill 672 must now clear the Senate Community Affairs Committee before being considered by the full Senate.
California: Grand Jury Slams Right Turn Tickets
Mar. 28, 2011 TheNewspaper.com - ArticleMar. 27, 2011 Napa Valley Register - Article
Excerpt:
The Grand Jury in Napa, California last month issued a report calling for reform and refunds in the city's red light camera program. The jurors uncovered yellow light timing discrepancies and an unusual dependence upon right-turn tickets to generate revenue at the most productive intersection. The Australian vendor Redflex Traffic Systems began issuing tickets in May 2009, and citations at four intersections now cost $475 each. So far, 9278 tickets worth $4 million have been mailed -- 3789 of which were sent to vehicle owners that turned right on red.
School safety cameras are for the money ... er ... the kids
Mar. 27, 2011 Herald Net - ArticleExcerpt:
But the people's revulsion to ticketing cameras hasn't slowed down the for-profit, out-of-state camera companies. They can't stop because tens of millions of dollars are on the line. That's why they have introduced a new product line: ticketing cameras on school buses.
Albuquerque loses money on red light cameras (after increasing yellow light times)
Mar. 27, 2011 Las Cruces Sun-News - ArticleExcerpt:
According to the city of Las Cruces' Financial Services Department, almost 35 percent of traffic camera citations haven't been paid since the city's Safe Traffic Operations Program (STOP) began almost two years ago. The balance owed to Redflex Traffic Systems, which oversees the city's red-light enforcement camera program, is now at $1.4 million, through February.
Albuquerque loses money on red light cameras (after increasing yellow light times)
Mar. 22, 2011 KOB.com - ArticleExcerpt:
Albuquerque Mayor Richard Berry could decide whether to scrap the city’s red-light camera within the next 30 days. The city is losing money on the program because of a recent change made with the timing of the yellow lights.
"If there are alternatives like extending yellow lights that work just as good or better than having the cameras themselves, then it’s a good case that the cameras should go," said Lewis.
Missouri Groups Fight Back Against Traffic Camera Astroturf Campaign
Mar. 18, 2011 TheNewspaper.com - ArticleExcerpt:
Grassroots anti-camera activists in Missouri yesterday charged that a photo enforcement firm was creating fake advocacy groups to promote the use of red light cameras and speed cameras. Wrong on Red and the Jefferson County Tea Party blasted American Traffic Solutions (ATS) for hiding its involvement in a slick advertising effort designed to persuade the legislature to allow photo ticketing to continue uninterrupted in the state.
Top cop says photo radar isn’t needed
Mar. 16, 2011 Cochrane Times - ArticleExcerpt:
Town council has already decided not to proceed with bringing photo radar to Cochrane, but if they needed any more encouragement to abstain from this service, a senior member of the Cochrane RCMP and the Emergency Services Chief gave them more reasons to hold off from contracting the service to an outside agency or operating it locally.
San Bernardino, California Dumps Red Light Cameras
Mar. 14, 2011 TheNewspaper.com - ArticleExcerpt:
The city council in San Bernardino, California voted 5 to 0 last week to pull the plug on its red light camera program. The action follows the lead of a growing number of jurisdictions in the Golden State that have grown disillusioned with automated ticketing machines. Most recently, Rocklin's cameras were shut off last Tuesday. San Bernardino officials argued it would be worth paying the private contractor American Traffic Solutions (ATS) about $110,000 to get out of the contract before its 2014 expiration date.
More California Cities Close to Dumping Red Light Cameras
Mar. 8, 2011 TheNewspaper.com - ArticleExcerpt:
Two more California communities are questioning the wisdom of photo enforcement. As of today, red light cameras are no longer operational in Rocklin after the city council decided not to renew the contract with Redflex Traffic Systems of Australia. The council in Victorville felt the same way but found it much more difficult to pull the plug on automated ticketing machines.
New Jersey: Longer Yellow Eliminates Red Light Running
Mar. 3, 2011 TheNewspaper.com - ArticleExcerpt:
Red light running all but disappeared at a New Jersey intersection after the duration of the yellow light warning time was increased under threat of a lawsuit. Glassboro gave the private company American Traffic Solutions (ATS) permission to issue red light camera tickets at the intersection of William Dalton Drive and Delsea Drive on March 26. The location was so successful at issuing $85 tickets that it generated $1 million worth of notices within just seven months.
Report Critiques Red Light Camera Research Methods
Feb. 25, 2011 TheNewspaper.com - ArticleExcerpt:
A peer-reviewed article published Wednesday in the Florida Public Health Review elaborated on a previous analysis of methods used in certain red light camera studies. University of South Florida (USF) researchers Barbara Langland-Orban, Etienne E. Pracht and John T. Large returned to clarify certain points raised in response to their 2008 report that concluded red light cameras tended to increase injury accidents (view study).
Fourth California County Rejects Red Light Camera Evidence
Feb. 23, 2011 TheNewspaper.com - ArticleExcerpt:
A consensus is growing among the appellate divisions of the California Superior Court that red light camera evidence currently offered by private companies does not meet the appropriate legal standard of proof. In December, a three-judge appeals panel in San Bernardino handed down a unanimous decision reversing the photo ticket issued to motorist John Macias.
Northern California Traffic and DUI Lawyer Matthew Becker Seeks Plaintiffs to Challenge Red Light Tickets
Feb. 23, 2011 PRWeb.com - ArticleExcerpt:
Matthew Becker, a traffic and DUI attorney in Sacramento and the Bay Area, wants red light camera tickets declared unconstitutional. He has five lines of legal arguments against red light tickets ready to test in the court systems. His goal is to test them all in order to maximize the chances of getting red light cameras removed throughout California, or even nationally. To do this, he needs 10 to 15 clients from each county in Northern California that has red light camera tickets to appeal their cases with him.
Bill to ban photo-enforcement cameras making its way through committee
Feb. 17, 2011 AZ Family - ArticleExcerpt:
PHOENIX – Photo-enforcement cameras have long been a source of controversy here in Arizona, but a bill that’s making its way through committee could make them a thing of the past.
Editor - Bill passed committee 5-1, and now proceeds to senate floor for a vote.
Texas: ATS Sues City For Insufficient Red Light Camera Ticketing
Feb. 16, 2011 TheNewspaper.com - ArticleExcerpt:
Traffic camera vendor American Traffic Solutions showed no municipal love as it filed a breach of contract suit against Baytown, Texas on Monday. The St. Valentine's Day complaint accused the city of failing to approve the mailing of an expected number of red light camera citations generated by the company.
Photo radar drive-by shooting investigated
Feb. 14, 2011 Calgary Herald - ArticleExcerpt:
Police are investigating a drive-by shooting of a $100,000 photo-radar unit in Lethbridge on Monday.
Investigators say multiple shots were fired at the portable box on Monday at 6:20 p.m. It was set up in the 2700-block of 24 Ave. when a vehicle drove by and someone fired numerous shots in the machine.
Red-light camera ticket thrown out
Feb. 10, 2011 Columbia City Paper - ArticleExcerpt:
A former Tennessee Highway Patrol officer and his business partner have formed a company selling camera-operated ticket systems, but there are problems in that its execution in Ridgeland, S.C. violates the law and endangers drivers.
Red-light camera ticket thrown out
Feb. 9, 2011 Victorville Daily Press - ArticleExcerpt:
VICTORVILLE - The city could have grounds to get out of its red-light camera contract after three San Bernardino County Superior Court judges declared photos and video from the Redflex system in Victorville inadmissible as evidence.
Redflex system killing tourism industry
Feb. 9, 2011 Napa Valley Register - ArticleExcerpt:
I was deeply saddened to read of the resulting “downer” to a visitor to our lovely valley. This family sounds like one we would be proud to host, and excited to show all we have to offer. Instead, a very bitter and discouraged traveler is revealed in his letter.
Speed Camera Support: Grassroots or Astroturf?
Feb. 7, 2011 Lutherville-Timonium Patch - ArticleExcerpt:
The group quickly attracted 357 “likes” from people who support a County Council bill that, if approved Monday, will authorize an unlimited expansion of the county’s current network of 15 speed cameras.
But the grassroots effort to win council support has a powerful friend not found on its Facebook page: ACS State and Local Solutions, the company that holds the county’s speed camera contract and stands to financially benefit from the pending legislation.
Reps. Morris, Overstreet sponsor bill eliminating traffic-enforcement cameras
Feb. 5, 2011 Bellingham Herald - ArticleExcerpt:
The authority for local governments to use traffic-enforcement cameras would be nixed by a bill sponsored by Reps. Jeff Morris, D-Mount Vernon, and Jason Overstreet, R-Blaine.
The bill would repeal sections of state law allowing local governments to use the cameras, including both red-light cameras and school-zone speed cameras.
Turn out the red lights
Feb. 2, 2011 Washington Times - ArticleExcerpt:
Sensing a legislative danger to their bottom line, companies that profit directly and indirectly from the use of red-light cameras rallied to the machines’ defense on Tuesday. The Insurance Institute for Higher Safety (IIHS), the Virginia-based mouthpiece for firms that raise rates on traffic-ticket recipients, produced a study that asserted installing Big Brother cams on every street corner would save 815 lives.
This is the same outfit that claimed the 1995 repeal of the 55 mile-per-hour speed limit has killed 12,545 people - never mind that the fatality rate has hit an all-time low as speed limits out west reach as high as 80 mph. Projections of how many lives “would have been saved” are spin, not science. What’s surprising is how many publications are still willing to take such wild claims at face value.
Speed cameras – are they an effective solution?
Feb. 1, 2011 PublicService.co.uk - ArticleExcerpt:
The RAC Foundation has published a report on the effectiveness of speed cameras written by Professor Richard Allsop. It makes many claims, mostly unsubstantiated, about their effectiveness but it totally fails to tackle the key issue. Are there better, more cost-effective solutions available?
It is indisputable that excessive speed, meaning speed that is inappropriate for the road and traffic conditions at the time, can be a contributory factor in accidents. But speed exceeding the speed limit is a factor in only 10 per cent of accidents – which is all speed cameras can hope to tackle, rather than inappropriate speed in general.
Chandler Refuses to Stand Behind Bogus Study
Feb. 1, 2011 CameraFraud.com - ArticleExcerpt:
The City of Chandler was contacted by two of the news outlets (both local) who reported on the news release by Redflex. Both were told that Chandler was not consulted and the numbers given by IIHS were inaccurate and deceptive.
As a matter of fact, quoting city officials, none of the Chandler intersection used in the IIHS study actually have photo enforcement scameras. How could a study on the impact of ANYTHING be done in this manner? Honestly, this sounds like a bad joke but it’s unfortunately the new low that Redflex has reached.
Opinion: Flaws in Insurance Institute Traffic Camera Study, Part 2
Feb. 2, 2011 TheNewspaper.com - ArticleExcerpt:
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety spent all of yesterday touting its report on the effectiveness on red light cameras as if it were the most "comprehensive" study available on the topic. The group emphasized the effects cameras would have had on one hundred of America's largest cities, but the report itself only looked at accident numbers in fourteen out of the 500 jurisdictions that have active photo ticketing programs. Industry researchers did not even know how many red light cameras were in use in the locations studied.
"Attempts were made to obtain historical information on the number of red light cameras in the study cities, but information on the scope of red light programs could not be obtained for many of the cities," the IIHS study explained (page 9).
Opinion: Insurance Institute Traffic Camera Study Flawed
Feb. 1, 2011 TheNewspaper.com - ArticleExcerpt:
The automated enforcement industry has suffered significant setbacks in the past several months. In November, voters in America's fourth largest city, Houston, Texas, used the referendum process to outlaw automated ticketing machines. A number of California cities have been dropping red light camera programs after experiencing mediocre safety results. Now one of the key industry players, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), is fighting back with a report released today claiming that with more red light cameras "a total of 815 deaths could have been avoided." The IIHS report, however, did not actually consider a single red light camera accident...
Attorney eyes class-action suit to refund fines
Feb. 2, 2011 VictorVille Daily Press - ArticleExcerpt:
“I want it in writing that you want to spend taxpayer dollars to take out these cameras and to fight a lawsuit,” McEachron told the tea party, anticipating there will be litigation over Victorville’s contract with camera operator RedFlex.
The standing-room only crowd responded in unison “here here!” and broke out into loud applause at the announcement, which was triggered by a request from Councilwoman Angela Valles.
Missouri County Moves to Oust Red Light Cameras
Jan. 31, 2011 TheNewspaper.com - ArticleExcerpt:
In October, Jefferson County, Missouri signed a contract with American Traffic Solutions (ATS) allowing the Arizona-based company to issue red light camera tickets in return for a cut of the profits. Now just three months later, the county council wants out of the deal. All seven members were unanimous in the desire to change direction, even signing a letter to lawmakers urging them to adopt a statewide ban on automated ticketing.
Washington: Four Cities Consider Red Light Camera Referendum
Jan. 28, 2011 TheNewspaper.com - ArticleExcerpt:
Residents in four cities in Washington state may opt for a ballot vote to ban the use of red light cameras and speed cameras. This week activists launched a coordinated effort to place the future of photo enforcement to a vote of the people in Bellingham, Longview, Monroe and Wenatchee. Each local group is following the battle plan established in Mukilteo where 71 percent of voters last year ousted automated enforcement.
California courts throwing out red light camera tickets
Jan. 22, 2011 Victorville Daily Press - ArticleExcerpt:
VICTORVILLE • Six of the city's controversial red light cameras have come down.
Now, with courts across the state raising questions over their legality, a group of local residents and one council member are gunning for dismantling the other 10.
Driver's red-light camera victory could signal change
Jan. 22, 2011 Bakersfield.com - ArticleExcerpt:
It took two years and six trips to court, but Bakersfield resident Diane Bevacqua finally beat a red-light camera ticket.
State Traffic Safety Efforts Focus on Rare Incidents
Jan. 20, 2011 TheNewspaper.com - ArticleExcerpt:
High-profile traffic safety campaigns are being mounted at the state and federal levels against behavior that rarely causes the most serious types of accidents. In the past several years, lawmakers have enacted measures designed to increase the punishments for driving past stopped school buses in the name of protecting children. They have also enacted "move over" laws to stop police officers from being killed at the roadside. Statistics released this month by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) indicate that accidents involving either situation are exceedingly rare.
UK: Motoring Group Challenges Speed Camera Safety Report
Jan. 17, 2011 TheNewspaper.com - ArticleExcerpt:
A British motoring group last week challenged the accuracy of a widely cited report on the effectiveness of speed cameras. The Association of British Drivers (ABD) released its own analysis disputing the November RAC Foundation study authored by Professor Richard Allsop. Many news reports cited the RAC work to claim that budget cuts forcing the decommissioning of speed cameras would cost 800 lives in the UK. ABD argued that this figure was based on misleading evidence.
Allsop's report relied primarily on a pair of previously conducted studies. The first was the 2005 Four Year Evaluation Report by PA Consulting and University College London, where Allsop teaches. This work relied on self-reported data from 38 speed camera partnerships. Allsop noted that this report did not properly account for the statistical phenomenon known as regression to the mean, so he adjusted the numbers using his own methodology.
Camera problems void speeding tickets
Jan. 14, 2011 CBC News - ArticleExcerpts:
The City of Edmonton is suspending use of some of its cameras used to catch speeders and cancelling some unpaid speeding tickets after it was determined the equipment was clocking drivers at speeds that were impossible to attain.
Rome's red-light cameras shut down
Jan. 12, 2011 RomeNews-Tribune - ArticleExcerpt:
The red-light cameras in the city of Rome are expected to be removed by the end of the month.
Public Services Director Kirk Milam said Wednesday the cameras were shut off at midnight on Dec. 31 after Redflex Traffic Systems Inc. declined to renew its contract with the city.
California Appellate Courts Continue to Toss Red Light Camera Tickets
Jan. 10, 2011 TheNewspaper.com - ArticleExcerpt:
California courts continue to find the evidence provided by photo enforcement citations to be lacking. In both Orange, and San Mateo Counties, appellate division judges found the images presented in court by private vendors to be inadmissible hearsay. Late last month, Kern County joined the growing number of jurisdictions troubled by the quality of traffic camera evidence packages.
Man beats traffic ticket in rare case
Jan. 6, 2011 Edmunton Sun - ArticleExcerpt:
Roger Beaudoin, a 57-year-old francophone, successfully fought a photo radar ticket in a Whitecourt courtroom Wednesday. It's a rare victory, says one Alberta traffic lawyer.
Beaudoin says he was driving his 2008 Dodge Ram Diesel truck on a strip of Highway 43 near Whitecourt, roughly 180 km northwest of Edmonton, on Aug. 25, when he was passed by a speeding truck near a photo radar trap.
Traffic Camera Attacks on the Rise in US
Jan. 5, 2011 CBC News - ArticleExcerpt:
Holland Wilde plans to put the photo radar van outside his home in a spotlight.
The Calgary man isn't complaining about speeding cars on his street. He wants police to stop flashing light into his home from the photo radar van parked outside.
Washington, Missouri Dumps Red Light Cameras
Jan. 5, 2011 TheNewspaper.com - ArticleExcerpt:
The city council in Washington, Missouri no longer believes that red light cameras have a positive impact on safety. Members voted 6 to 2 on Monday to allow the automated ticketing contract with American Traffic Solutions (ATS) to expire, and Mayor Sandy Lucy agreed to draft a letter to the for-profit company making it clear that the council has no interest in ever bringing the devices back.
Traffic Camera Attacks on the Rise in US
Jan. 2, 2011 TheNewspaper.com - ArticleExcerpt:
Over the past several years, vigilantes in Australia and Europe have destroyed hundreds of speed cameras. Until recently, such attacks remained rare in the United States. Last week, however, photo enforcement devices were taken out in California, Louisiana and South Carolina compared to a single camera in France.
Traffic Camera Attacks on the Rise in US
Dec. 20, 2011 The Rutherford Institute - ArticleExcerpt:
Before Janet Napolitano, Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, unleashed full body imaging scanners and "enhanced" pat downs on American airline passengers, she subjected Arizona drivers to red light cameras. In August 2008, Napolitano, then-governor of Arizona, instituted a statewide system of 200 fixed and mobile speed and red light cameras, which were projected to bring in more than $120 million in annual revenue for the state. She was aided in this endeavor by the Australian corporation Redflex Traffic Systems.