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Will the Supreme Court Do Away with Speed Cameras?

By Oguz Ozdemir

One third of the automobile accidents caused on the roads today are the result of speeding. In an attempt to cut down on this statistic, 25 states have incorporated red light cameras on their roadways. The cameras are usually placed in areas that have been a hot spot in the past for speeders. If a driver goes past the speed limit, the camera will snap a photo of the driver and provides the evidence of the speeding violation.

They have also been put into place in areas where you are allowed to turn right after making a complete stop. Running a red light and not stopping before turning will also get you a picture of your offense.

In June 2009, the actions of the Supreme Court may challenge the use of these cameras to prove that a driver was definitely speeding. In the case of Melendez-Diaz v. Massachusetts, the Supreme Court ruled that the certificate that was recorded by the camera was insufficient evidence and did not allow for the process of cross examination by the defendant.

A group called The National Campaign to Stop Red Light Running is concerned that the Supreme Court ruling is just going to give speeders more ammunition in fighting these violations and will eliminate the use of red light and speed cameras.

So far, 25 states are using the cameras to cut down on moving violations and improve the safety of their streets. They have produced positive results that show a reduction in car accidents that usually occur when a driver runs through a red light. The drivers are aware of the cameras and slow down automatically. When the drivers know that the cameras are on them and there will be proof of their violation they are a little bit more cautious.

Charlotte, NC has seen a 70 percent drop in drivers running red light just in the very first year with the cameras working. New York has shown a 62 percent drop in red light violations and Columbus OH saw a 71 percent decline and not one rear end collision in the first six months that the cameras were in operation.

While the Supreme Court is challenging this new system as solid evidence, the states that are using the cameras all agree that the use of the speed cameras is constitutional. Their stance is driving is a privilege and one that comes with the responsibility of obeying the rules of the road. The people who suffer from those who run red lights are not the drivers themselves but the innocent victims who happen to be in their way as they blow through the red light.

If you have been a victim of a speeding driver or someone who has run a red light, please contact our office at 1-888-LAW-IN-NY. The attorneys at Napoli Bern Ripka LLP have over 60 years of combined experience in handling personal injury claims as a result of automobile accidents. Come in for a free consultation so we can give you a full assessment of your situation and start working towards getting you the compensation that you deserve.

Originally posted at InjuryBoard by Oguz Ozdemir

Full post as published by New York City Personal Injury Lawyer on August 07, 2009 (boomark / email).