COURT CASE PUTS FUTURE OF CAMERAS AT INTERSECTIONS IN QUESTION

Red-Light Cameras May Prevent Car Accidents

Cameras to catch red-light runners may disappear or at least the way they are presently being used. A Miami-Dade County judge this week ruled that the City of Aventura overstepped state law when it used cameras to fine red-light runners. Using the cameras without having a police officer at the scene when the violations occur is invalid, Circuit Court Judge Jerald Bagley ruled.

In Florida, 26 cities use cameras to ticket red-light runners. Governments argue that the red-light cameras are good because they reduce serious crashes and generate cash through fines that typically start at $100. In fact, Temple Terrace has collected more than $1.5 million in fines since October 2008 and Hillsborough County expects to make $2.4 million a year from its 10 cameras.

Brooksville, Port Richey and Kenneth City have programs in place. Tampa and St. Petersburg are considering the cameras, but officials haven't finalized the plans. We'll have to see if this court ruling changes their plans.

The camera issue could soon be made moot, though. A bill circulating in the Florida Legislature would allow cities and counties to use red-light cameras and provide guidelines for their usage and collection of fines.

Most car accidents occur at intersections and many occur because someone ran a red-light. Camera or no camera, drive safely and watch out for those who don't.

If your friend or loved one is injured because of the negligence of another driver, contact Personal Injury Attorney Matthew Noyes for answers to your legal questions. Attorney Noyes' Tampa Bay personal injury law firm-Perenich, Caulfield, Avril & Noyes-has been caring for clients after car accidents, motorcycle accidents, bicycle accidents and other personal injury matters since 1955. Contact us today!