Red Light, Green Light, One Two Three!

What’s your first thought when the light turns yellow? I know my first thought is, “Can I make this?” followed by “AHHHHHH” as I imagine the light turning red as I speed through. But why? Why do we put ourselves through all this trouble? Especially, with the new red light cameras being installed at every intersection. Most people have one of two thoughts when it comes to these cameras: What’s the deal with these tattle-tales? Or what’s a red light camera!?!? Let me help.

The new red light cameras, which are usually stationed on the same pole as the traffic light, are automatic digital cameras that take pictures as the light turns red to catch those who try to beat the change.  One to two months later, the violator will receive an $85 fine along with a photo souvenir of the event.

At first, I was pretty annoyed and nervous about these so-called tattle tales, until I realized what a great idea they are. Drivers who ran a red light cause 22 percent of traffic accidents. Since the red light cameras have been implemented, the rate of these accidents has been reduced by 24 percent.

So avoid the $85 fine and possible accidents by simply slowing down at yellow lights. Traffic lights aren’t a suggestion, it’s the law!