Once the camera system detected a violator, it recorded two pictures from the rear of the vehicle, showing it enter and proceed through the intersection. These pictures were used to identify the registered owner by the licence plate and give evidence for a citation. The automated detection system is designed for the through movements of traffic. Violation data, accident data, and traffic data were collected from the Virginia Department of Transportation, the Fairfax County Department of Transportation, and the Fairfax County Police Department.

The data analysis has identified improvements in violation rates on the order of 36 per cent over the first three months of automated enforcement and 69 per cent reductions after six months of camera operation. The accident rates data also showed a reduction of 40 per cent in accidents. This reduction in accidents, accounting for expenses of implementation and operation of the system, could lead to a benefit to the community of approximately $8.75 million US over the next eight years. Public opinion in the Fairfax County jurisdiction was found to be strongly supportive of the automated enforcement.

The results found in this study show that the implementation of red light running cameras in Fairfax County, Virginia, have been successful in providing benefits with respect to traffic, economy, and safety.

Ruby DE, Hobeika AG. Transportation Quarterly 2003; 57(3): 33. Abstract posted on www.safetylit.org, December 1, 2003.

Safety Canada January 2004