Removal of Red-Light Safety Cameras Proves Deadly

According to a recent report, removing red-light safety cameras from dangerous intersections has resulted in a 30 percent increase in fatal traffic collisions and a 117 percent increase in total traffic crashes at 51 intersections in Houston, where red-light safety cameras once stood.

The National Coalition for Safer Roads (NCSR) is shining light on new figures from the Houston Police Department that show total traffic collisions more than doubled from 4,147 in 2006-2010 when cameras were in use to 8,984 in 2010-2014, when cameras were not in operation.

The city ended its red-light safety camera program in 2010.

During the same time period, major crashes rose nearly 85 percent, from 1,391 to 2,568. Independent research in Texas and Virginia indicates Houston’s experience is not an isolated example.

“Red-light running is a significant issue in the United States, often contributing to collision-related fatalities,” says NCSR President Melissa Wandall.

The red-light safety cameras are designed to change driver behavior and promote better adherence to traffic laws, resulting in fewer injuries and collision-related deaths.

Category: Featured, General Update