How effective are red light cameras?
RLC systems are intended to increase the safety at intersections. So, do they work?
The Virginia Transportation Research Council released a report expanding upon earlier research into the safety effects of red light cameras in Virginia. Despite showing an increase in crashes, this study was instrumental in the return of red-light cameras to the state of Virginia. With a proven negative safety impact, the clear incentive to bring back the cameras was money.
Some of the conclusions of the study include that rear-end crashes increased in the six-jurisdictions studied by approximately 27%. In fact, the study did not show a definitive safety benefit associated with camera installation with regard to all crash types, all crash severities, and all crash jurisdictions.