REDFLEX Is Coming
Resistance is futile. City after city has been attracted by the siren call of technology combined with enforcement. Many cities have been unable to resist the dive into the speed enforcement technology that has been creeping across the country. Parma Heights could resist no longer.
On May 3rd, the Mayor's Office in Parma Heights made available a press release announcing the installation of red light/speed enforcement camera's in the city. According to Mayor Byrne's Office, installation of the red light cameras will occur over the summer. The use of a speed van will begin immediately. The van will be stationed in school zones and in areas of traffic complaints.
The technology is camera based. Instead of an officer pulling over cars when a violation occurs, a photograph is taken of the violation and another photograph simultaneously photographs the registration of the vehicle. The cameras are triggered by a vehicle entering the intersection above a pre-established minimum speed following a specified time after the signal has turned red. Once an infraction occurs, a violation is mailed out that includes a link to Photonotice.com where the violator can view the video tape, photo, and detailed data of the incident.
The Press release states a camera will be placed at the intersection of Pearl and York and surveys are currently being conducted to determine the exact location where other red light/speed cameras will be installed. No date was given for the installation of the cameras.
In the press release, the city cites statistics that state nearly 1,000 fatalities occur in the United States each year as a result of red light violations. The city states that cities across the country have reduced the number of deaths and injuries due to red light violations by as much as 20% to 50%, simply by installing the red light cameras. "Progressive communities are recognizing that red light running isn't just a minor traffic violation but that it has major safety and financial implications" said Karen Finley, President and CEO of REDFLEX Traffic systems. Ms. Finley also states that in addition to saving lives, red light cameras yield significant cost saving to motorists and the community through fewer property damage claims, lower insurance premiums, reduced medical expenses and increased productivity for those commuting once-dangerous intersections.
Safety Director Richard Rob states in the press release "It is important to note that the citations are civil offences and not criminal offences." Vehicle owners will have an opportunity to nominate the correct driver, if necessary, and contest thier ticket in a court of law just as with a traditional traffic ticket.
The press release also states "With the current economic situation, it is important to note that the REDFLEX technology is completely violator funded and involves no cost to the city." The city states REDFLEX Traffic Systems was selected following a competitive review. Selection was based in part on REDFLEX's extensive experience in the traffic safety area and a client base that includes nearly 50% of all photo-based traffic safety programs operating in the United States.