As you drive through the streets of New Jersey, you may have noticed cameras installed at various intersections. These cameras are designed to capture images of vehicles that run red lights, and they can result in hefty fines for drivers who are caught. But does New Jersey have red light cameras, and how do they work? In this article, we’ll explore the details of red light cameras in New Jersey and what you need to know to avoid getting a ticket.
A Brief History of Red Light Cameras in New Jersey
New Jersey first introduced red light cameras in 2009 as part of a pilot program. The program was designed to test the effectiveness of the cameras in reducing accidents and improving traffic safety. The cameras were installed at 25 intersections in 25 municipalities across the state. The program was initially set to run for five years, but it was extended several times due to its success.
How Red Light Cameras Work
Red light cameras use sensors and cameras to capture images of vehicles that run red lights. Here’s how they work:
- Sensors are installed in the road to detect when a vehicle approaches the intersection.
- When a vehicle enters the intersection after the light has turned red, the sensors trigger the camera to take a photo of the vehicle’s license plate.
- The camera also captures a video of the vehicle running the red light.
- The images and video are then reviewed by law enforcement to determine if a violation occurred.
Where Are Red Light Cameras Located in New Jersey?
Red light cameras are located at various intersections throughout New Jersey. According to the New Jersey Department of Transportation, there are currently over 800 red light cameras installed at intersections across the state. The cameras are located in both urban and suburban areas, and they are often installed at intersections with high accident rates.
Top 5 Municipalities with the Most Red Light Cameras
Here are the top 5 municipalities with the most red light cameras in New Jersey:
- Newark: 143 cameras
- Jersey City: 114 cameras
- Elizabeth: 93 cameras
- Paterson: 84 cameras
- Edison: 74 cameras
What Happens If You Get Caught Running a Red Light?
If you get caught running a red light by a camera, you can expect to receive a ticket in the mail. The ticket will include a photo of your vehicle’s license plate, as well as a video of the incident. The fine for running a red light in New Jersey is $85, plus court costs.
How to Contest a Red Light Camera Ticket
If you receive a red light camera ticket, you have the option to contest it. Here are the steps to follow:
- Review the evidence: Carefully review the photo and video evidence to ensure that it is clear and accurate.
- Check for errors: Check the ticket for any errors, such as an incorrect license plate number or date.
- Gather evidence: Gather any evidence that may support your case, such as witness statements or photos.
- Attend a hearing: Attend a hearing at the municipal court to present your case.
Benefits of Red Light Cameras
Red light cameras have been shown to have several benefits, including:
- Reduced accidents: Red light cameras have been shown to reduce the number of accidents at intersections.
- Improved traffic safety: Red light cameras help to improve traffic safety by deterring drivers from running red lights.
- Increased revenue: Red light cameras generate revenue for municipalities through fines.
Statistics on Red Light Cameras in New Jersey
Here are some statistics on red light cameras in New Jersey:
- According to the New Jersey Department of Transportation, red light cameras have reduced accidents at intersections by 25%.
- In 2020, red light cameras generated over $100 million in revenue for municipalities in New Jersey.
- The most common time for red light camera violations is during rush hour, between 7am and 9am.
Criticisms of Red Light Cameras
While red light cameras have been shown to have several benefits, they have also been criticized for several reasons, including:
- Inaccuracy: Some critics argue that red light cameras can be inaccurate, and may issue tickets to drivers who did not actually run a red light.
- Revenue generation: Some critics argue that red light cameras are primarily used as a revenue generation tool, rather than a safety measure.
- Lack of transparency: Some critics argue that municipalities are not transparent enough about the location and operation of red light cameras.
Alternatives to Red Light Cameras
Some alternatives to red light cameras include:
- Increasing the length of yellow lights: Increasing the length of yellow lights can give drivers more time to clear the intersection before the light turns red.
- Improving intersection design: Improving the design of intersections can help to reduce accidents and improve traffic safety.
- Increasing police presence: Increasing police presence at intersections can help to deter drivers from running red lights.
Conclusion
Red light cameras are a common sight in New Jersey, and they can result in hefty fines for drivers who are caught running red lights. While the cameras have been shown to have several benefits, including reducing accidents and improving traffic safety, they have also been criticized for several reasons. By understanding how red light cameras work and where they are located, drivers can take steps to avoid getting a ticket.
What are red light cameras and how do they work?
Red light cameras are automated systems that capture images of vehicles that run red lights at intersections. These cameras are usually installed at busy intersections and are triggered by sensors that detect when a vehicle enters the intersection after the light has turned red. The cameras then capture a series of images, including the vehicle’s license plate, make, and model, as well as the traffic signal.
The images are then reviewed by law enforcement or a third-party vendor to determine if a violation occurred. If a violation is confirmed, a ticket is issued to the vehicle’s owner. The ticket typically includes a fine, as well as a photo of the vehicle running the red light.
Are red light cameras legal in New Jersey?
Yes, red light cameras are legal in New Jersey. In 2008, the state legislature passed a law allowing municipalities to install red light cameras at intersections. The law requires that the cameras be installed at intersections with a high incidence of accidents or near schools. The law also requires that the cameras be clearly marked with signs indicating that they are in use.
However, the use of red light cameras in New Jersey has been the subject of controversy. Some critics argue that the cameras are more about generating revenue than improving safety. Others have raised concerns about the accuracy of the cameras and the fairness of the ticketing process.
How much is the fine for running a red light in New Jersey?
The fine for running a red light in New Jersey is $85. However, if the violation is captured by a red light camera, the fine is $85 plus a $42 administrative fee, for a total of $127. The fine is the same regardless of whether the violation is captured by a police officer or a red light camera.
It’s worth noting that running a red light is a serious offense that can result in more severe penalties if it results in an accident or injury. In addition to the fine, drivers who run red lights may also face points on their license, increased insurance rates, and even license suspension.
Can I contest a red light camera ticket in New Jersey?
Yes, you can contest a red light camera ticket in New Jersey. If you receive a ticket, you have the option to plead guilty and pay the fine, or to contest the ticket and request a hearing. To contest the ticket, you must submit a written request to the municipal court within 30 days of receiving the ticket.
At the hearing, you will have the opportunity to present evidence and argue your case. You may also be able to review the images captured by the red light camera. If you are found not guilty, the ticket will be dismissed and you will not have to pay the fine.
Do red light cameras reduce accidents in New Jersey?
According to the New Jersey Department of Transportation, red light cameras have been shown to reduce accidents at intersections where they are installed. A study by the department found that the number of accidents at intersections with red light cameras decreased by 25% after the cameras were installed.
However, the effectiveness of red light cameras in reducing accidents is not universally accepted. Some studies have found that the cameras may actually increase the number of rear-end accidents, as drivers slam on their brakes to avoid running the red light.
Can I get points on my license for running a red light in New Jersey?
Yes, you can get points on your license for running a red light in New Jersey. Running a red light is a 2-point offense in New Jersey. If you accumulate 6 or more points on your license, you may face additional penalties, including a surcharge on your insurance and even license suspension.
However, if you receive a ticket for running a red light from a red light camera, you will not receive points on your license. The ticket is considered a civil offense, rather than a moving violation, and does not result in points.
Are red light cameras monitored in real-time in New Jersey?
No, red light cameras in New Jersey are not monitored in real-time. The cameras capture images of vehicles that run red lights, but the images are not reviewed in real-time. Instead, the images are reviewed by law enforcement or a third-party vendor at a later time to determine if a violation occurred.
However, some red light cameras in New Jersey may be equipped with real-time monitoring capabilities, such as live video feeds. These cameras are typically used at high-risk intersections or in areas with a high incidence of crime.