December 13, 2024 | Chicago Personal Injury Blog
Before 2003, Chicago struggled with dangerous T-bone crashes at major intersections. That year, the city introduced red light cameras at just two intersections: Peterson and Western and 55th and Western. Today, cameras watch over 149 intersections throughout the city, photographing drivers who run red lights. As a result, angle crashes at these intersections have dropped to 56% of their previous levels.
Here’s what car and truck drivers in Illinois need to know about red light cameras and what a ticket means for you.
What Are Red Light Cameras?
Red light cameras are surveillance devices that automatically photograph vehicles entering intersections after the signal turns red. The cameras capture the license plate, and authorities mail the driver a citation within five to seven business days. Unlike traditional traffic stops, these are all automated, and there’s no interaction with law enforcement.
How The Camera System Works
The red light camera process follows a clear sequence:
- High-resolution digital cameras integrate with the traffic signal system and use 3D radar to detect approaching vehicles
- The cameras capture three distinct photos, one showing front tires before the stop bar, another showing rear tires past it, and a third showing a close-up of the license plate
- A 12-second video records the entire event (four seconds before and eight seconds after)
- The images undergo review by both automated systems and a vendor
- The City’s Department of Revenue processes confirmed violations
- City workers mail citations to registered vehicle owners
The cameras only activate if a vehicle enters the intersection at least 0.3 seconds after the light has turned red, and each possible violation requires two separate human reviews before a ticket is issued. The standard fine in Chicago is $100, but it doubles to $200 if not paid within 21 days.
The Law On Red Light Cameras In Illinois
Illinois law requires specific conditions for red light camera operation. Specifically, the Illinois Vehicle Code mandates:
- Clear signage warning drivers about camera enforcement before every monitored intersection
- Regular calibration and testing of equipment
- A minimum yellow light duration of three seconds (four where speed limits exceed 30 mph)
- Photo evidence preservation for at least six months
- Safety impact studies every two years to assess crash rates
- Notices must be mailed within 30 days of identifying the vehicle owner
- Citations cannot be issued if the vehicle stops without entering the intersection, even if it’s past the stop line
These requirements aim to ensure that the system works fairly and transparently.
Challenging A Red Light Camera Ticket
Vehicle owners have several options after receiving a red light camera ticket, including:
- Paying the fine within the specified timeframe
- Contesting the ticket within seven days of receipt
- Requesting to review video footage and images online
- Submitting evidence of extenuating circumstances
- Providing proof of vehicle theft or incorrect registration
Each of these options requires careful attention to deadlines and documentation. Remember, a single missed detail can result in doubled fines.
Impacts Of Red Light Cameras In Illinois
The biggest impacts of red light cameras have been on safety and revenue. According to the Chicago Department of Transportation, the number of dangerous angle crashes has dropped by almost half. Meanwhile, total car crashes have fallen to 52% of their previous levels, and crashes that result in serious injuries have decreased to 39% of what they were before.
Since 2003, Chicago’s red light cameras have generated over $915 million in revenue. Each violation results in a $100 fine, which doubles to $200 if not paid within three weeks. Unlike speed cameras and other traffic programs, all revenue from these violations goes directly to the city.
Red Light Cameras Mean Safer Roads
While red light cameras have contributed to a significant reduction in certain types of crashes, questions persist about their overall effectiveness and fairness. However, stakeholders remain optimistic about their impact and seek to continually make informed improvements to improve road safety throughout the state.
Contact our Personal Injury Law Firm at Powell and Pisman Injury Lawyers
If you’ve been injured in an accident in Chicago, IL, don’t navigate the legal process alone. Our dedicated team is here to provide the expert guidance you need to secure the compensation you deserve. Contact our experienced attorneys at Powell and Pisman Injury Lawyers for a free consultation.
We serve Cook County and its surrounding areas:
Powell and Pisman Injury Lawyers
875 N Dearborn St 4th Floor
Chicago, IL 60610
(312) 635-5400