NCJ Number
229172
Journal
Law Enforcement Technology Volume: 36 Issue: 10 Dated: October 2009 Pages: 10,12-14,16,17
Date Published
October 2009
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This article presents the pros and cons being advanced regarding automated, camera-based detection of traffic-light violations, with attention to the types of public education needed to convince the public of the safety advantages of such enforcement.
Abstract
Opponents of camera-based detection of traffic-light violations argue that the public does not favor it and it violates citizen privacy, is a government effort to increase income from fines, and uses private organizations to do what should be the work of public police. Each of these arguments is met by proponents who cite surveys that show the majority of the public favors this method of enforcing traffic laws and it deters and detects a dangerous traffic violation that affects only the guilty; results in very little, if any, profit; and is an efficient use of sworn personnel, who are freed to do other more labor-intensive tasks. The article argues that the more persuasive arguments of the advocates of camera-based traffic-light enforcement must engage in public education if public support is to be maintained in the face of organized opposition. Perhaps the most vocal outcry over photo enforcement pertains to whether a private corporation should be involved in enforcing traffic laws. This requires an explanation of the breakdown of the associated tasks. These tasks are described in this article, from policymaking to the collection and analysis of camera-based data. Regarding profits, a portion of the funds collected go to administrative and maintenance costs. The use of revenue over and above these operating costs should be specified and made known to the public.