We are sure by now everyone has noticed those cameras at most big intersections. But aren't you curious as to how they work and who gets all the money? Well here is a little info to help answer some of your questions.
What exactly sets off a red-light camera?
Well you know that white "stop bar" line that appears at the end of every lane to signify the beginning of an intersection, there is a laser sensor about the size of a hockey puck that is embedded behind it.
If your car crosses that censor at 10mph or more, after the light has turned red its instructs the cameras to take 2 still photos as well as a brief video.
What determines if you're in violation?
If the first photo shows your car with its front tires behind the stop bar after the light has turned red and then the second photo shows your car driving through the red-light. And well the video just captures the whole thing in case you try to deny it (haha). If you enter the intersection on a green or yellow and leave it on a red, there is NO violation.
What if you want to claim that you weren't driving the car?
Good luck with that one... the law makes the car owner responsible for the ticket. Proving you were not driving is not a defense unless you can identify the person who was driving and that person also admits to it. Also there is a fine of up to $500 and up to 60days in jail if you falsely say that it was not you driving.
Who gets the money?
Now this is probably what most of you are wondering. Well the city or county gets $75 for each violation and then the rest of your $158 ticket goes to the state. The camera company usually receives a flat fee of $4,200 to $4,700 per camera, per month. It takes about 2 paid tickets per day to cover that cost.
Hope this was helpful....oh and DON'T GET CAUGHT!
We found this information off of www.tampabay.com. If you would like to read the full article and get more info about the red-light cameras CLICK HERE.
