Red Light Cameras Up and Running in West Palm Beach
Driver's beware.
West Palm Beach is using cameras at intersections to photograph -- and cite -- red light runners.
City officials said the cameras will make streets safer.
But some drivers have a different opinion.
"You can't even drive down the street without someone recording you know. I mean, give me a break. I don't see why they need to do that. The police are on the street patrolling that way, now they're going to, it's like big brother watching," said Dana, who works downtown.
"It's kind of ridiculous. It kind of is a violation of our privacy in a way. Everything has camera these days," said driver, Joe Rainwater.
The cameras come with a hefty fine. If you run a red light, or even if someone driving your car runs it, the cameras capture your license plate and you will get a ticket in the mail. Right now there is a 90 day probation, so only warnings will be issued. But after that, it's a $125 ticket.
But city officials said it's not about the revenue. The most important thing, they said, is safety.
"Studies have shown that these cameras work. That they decrease red light running, that they decrease accidents related to red light running. And these types of accidents are actually the number one type for urban areas," said public information officer with West Palm Beach, Peter Robbins.
Some drivers are glad to see the cameras go up.
"As far as I'm concerned it's a good idea. If it stops one accident, one person getting killed it's great," said Ken Druskin.
There is some question to the legality of the cameras. City officials say they're aware of a lawsuit that may become class action, with arguments that the cameras are a constitutional violation. But they feel they new tool will stand up.
Others however are not so sure.
"I think it's sneaky. Yea," said driver, Bruce Lewis.
Once the tickets are issued, it will be a civil infraction and will not add points on your license.
City officials say the revenue generated will go towards traffic programs.
