Village of East Hazel CrestRed Light Cameras Are Coming To Improve Intersection Safety
In an effort to enhance safety at some of
East Hazel Crest’s most dangerous intersections, the Village Board has approved the installation of an automated traffic enforcement system, also known as Red Light Cameras, for various intersections within the community. The first camera will be operational at the intersection of 171 st and Halsted in July 2009.
According to recent studies conducted by the U.S. Dept. of Transportation, Red Light Camera Programs can decrease red light violations up to 60%. Traffic accidents caused by red light runners are among the most serious, often resulting in severe injuries and fatalities. Studies have shown that approximately 1,000 people die and 176,000 people are injured annually in the United States because of drivers running red lights.
There are Two Types of Red Light Violations:
(1) Right Turn on Red Without coming to a complete stop and
(2) Entering an intersection after the traffic signal has turned red.
A common misconception is that the cameras will be photographing everyone as they drive thru the community. In fact, Sensors placed in the pavement activate the camera only when a vehicle enters the intersection during the red light cycle. A total of 3 photographs will be taken plus 8-10 seconds of digital video. The images include: the car entering the red light intersection, the car passing thru the intersection and finally, a close-up of the license plate. All 3 images, plus a link to view the video footage on-line, will be provided to the vehicle’s registered owner who is mailed the violation. According to Illinois Law, it is illegal to photograph the faces of either drivers or passengers.
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