Mark & Juanita wrote:

I would feel better about this if I knew exactly *when* the camera issues
the citation. Is it when a car is *in* the intersection as the light turns
red? When a car enters the intersection just *after* a yellow light turns
red (that may have been a very short yellow)? Or is it a second or so
*after* the light turns red? In the latter case, I have absolutely no
problem with the concept. The other cases are bothersome because they do
not in any way cause a traffic hazard and are often the result of
misjudging the length of a yellow or making a poor choice when the light
turns yellow. In those cases, the cars in the opposing direction will not
have had a chance to enter the intersection, whereas in the last example,
that is when accidents occur.

The camera doesn't issue the citation.... OK I know what you mean. But it would
be interesting to get an email informing you of the fine on your 3G mobile
before you cleared the intersection...

It depends on your local traffic laws... ie what constitutes illegally entering
an intersection. Here in Australia it's illegal to enter after the light goes
red, and also illegal to enter if you can't clear the intersection, ie if it's
blocked by stationary cars waiting to exit. Red light cameras will get you for
either.
--
Patrick Hamlyn posting from Perth, Western Australia
Windsurfing capital of the Southern Hemisphere
Moderator: polyforms group )