Red light cameras have been heavily disputed across Texas but reports released last week prove they are making dangerous intersections a lot safer. The city of Austin, TX currently has five intersections equipped with these red light cameras. Since Memorial Day weekend, when they started going up, over 9,600 photos have been snapped capturing 2,200 traffic law violators in plain sight. These unfortunate drivers found a $75 ticket in their mailbox soon after.

However, these cameras do so much more than just make money. The rate of car wrecks in Austin has noticeably dropped. According to the Austin Police Department, the intersection of 11th street and Interstate 35 has benefited from a 50% decrease in car crashes. The annual red light camera report by Texas A&M for the Texas Department of Transportation recorded 43% less right-angle crashes over the past year. A 5% increase in rear end collisions was also reported.

One thing is certain, that this twenty-four hour surveillance of busy intersections encourages most drivers to better observe traffic laws. As for those against these cameras, it is hard to argue with the numbers. You may get angry when you don’t make the light but you should be thankful that you can safely make it home.

Source: http://www.kvue.com/news/local/stories/120308kvue_red-light-eh-cb.27e821da.html