Kenny Habetz Injury Law | November 26, 2024 | Car Accident
Many Lafayette drivers have questions about traffic and red light cameras. Here’s what residents should know about these automated enforcement systems and how they affect traffic safety in the community.
The Eye in the Sky: How Traffic Cameras Work
Lafayette’s traffic camera program uses automated systems to detect and photograph vehicles that run red lights or exceed speed limits. Citations are then reviewed and mailed to violators.
When a violation occurs, the system might record:
- Multiple photographs and short video evidence showing the vehicle crossing after the red light
- Clear images of license plates
- The precise timing of the violation relative to the signal change
Since driving is a regulated activity, these cameras serve as an automated extension of standard traffic enforcement, documenting violations just as a police officer would during a traditional stop.
Local Laws Regarding Red Light Cameras
According to Lafayette Consolidated Government Municipal Code Section 86-107, traffic camera enforcement in Lafayette is classified as a civil matter, not a criminal one. This key distinction significantly affects how these violations are handled and what they mean for drivers.
When a traffic camera catches a violation, it triggers a civil process similar to getting a parking ticket. The citation won’t appear on the recipient’s criminal record, can’t result in jail time, and follows different rules than violations issued by police officers during traditional traffic stops.
Impacts on Traffic Safety
Research from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety shows that red light cameras reduce dangerous T-bone crashes at intersections by up to 30%. Many cities with established automated enforcement programs have reported similarly significant safety improvements.
Common Locations For Traffic Cameras
Lafayette’s traffic enforcement cameras are strategically placed at high-risk intersections based on vehicle accident data and traffic patterns.
As in other cities, cameras are typically located in the following areas:
- Major intersections with documented crash histories
- High-traffic corridors with demonstrated safety concerns
- Near schools and public facilities
- Intersections with high pedestrian activity
Camera placement decisions focus on areas where automated enforcement can most effectively reduce accidents and improve road safety.
What To Do If You Receive a Citation
Citations from traffic cameras typically arrive by mail within 30 days of the violation. Upon receiving a citation, you have several important rights under Lafayette’s traffic camera program. For one, you have the right to review all evidence, including photos and video footage of the alleged violation.
You can contest the citation through an administrative hearing, where you can present evidence that the vehicle was stolen or operated by someone else at the time of the violation. Throughout this process, you maintain the right to seek legal representation to aid your defense.
Vehicle Owners’ Responsibilities
As a vehicle owner, you must maintain current registration information and ensure that anyone else who uses your vehicle follows all posted traffic laws. You also bear responsibility for responding to citations within stated deadlines.
The Future of Traffic Enforcement
Lafayette continues to evaluate the potential expansion of its automated enforcement program. This follows trends seen in cities like San Francisco, which recently approved the installation of additional cameras at eight new locations by 2025.
However, local authorities must provide solid evidence that the automated systems work since these expansions typically come with substantial investment, which is worrisome for taxpayers. For example, San Francisco’s recent contract extension through 2028 is projected to cost $5 million for equipment leasing and maintenance.
Traffic and Red Light Cameras Aren’t Going Away
Traffic cameras remain a subject of ongoing discussion in Lafayette. While cities like San Francisco demonstrate notable safety improvements through automated enforcement, success depends on proper implementation, regular evaluation, and fair enforcement practices.
As more cities adopt these systems, continued monitoring and adjustment will ensure that they serve their intended purpose of improving public safety.
Contact the Louisiana Car Accident Law Firm Of Kenny Habetz Injury Law for Help Today
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, please call Kenny Habetz Injury Law for a free case evaluation with a Louisiana car accident lawyer or contact us online. We have offices in Lafayette and Crowley, LA.
Kenny Habetz Injury Law – Lafayette
110 E Kaliste Saloom Rd Ste 101 Lafayette, LA 70508
(337) 227-6541
Kenny Habetz Injury Law – Crowley
604 S Parkerson Ave. Crowley, LA 70526
(337) 329-8883
