Red light cameras catch traffic violators

Red light cameras are relatively new to Spokane and are an attempt to bring safety and awareness to drivers.

The City of Spokane has implemented the red light camera enforcement program through American Traffic Solutions Inc. This program is used to increase safety and reduce potential vehicle crashes at intersections. A violation occurs when a vehicle fails to come to a complete stop at the red signal. The $124 ticket is issued to the car's registered owner.

Sophomore Rachel Cook received a red light violation ticket this year at the intersection of Hamilton Street and Mission Avenue. Students are at risk of receiving a violation at this intersection because it is very heavily populated by students.

"It was frustrating, but I get why it's there," Cook said.

 She finds herself hitting the brakes more abruptly and increasing her driving awareness.
"I've definitely been more aware of them now when I drive," Cook said.

After about three weeks, Cook's mother received the notice by mail.

"I waited awhile for it. After a couple weeks my mom never said anything, but then she was not exactly happy to receive the notice," Cook said.

This violation was Cook's first traffic ticket on her driving record.

"I knew it was my mistake, but if a police officer had seen me go through it would have been up to their discretion at the time," Cook said.

Senior Becky Pelton had a red light violation sent to her father because her uncle borrowed the vehicle and had run a red light in an intersection with a camera.
"My dad was angry because he didn't know where the ticket was coming from," Pelton said.

The ticket came several weeks later, so it was difficult to identify the driver during the particular violation, Pelton said.

"My uncle paid it, but it ended up being a hassle because it came to my dad first," Pelton said.

"They seem potentially dangerous because people may feel the need to slam on their brakes, even though they may not need to," senior Katey Driscoll said.

Driscoll said the lights can be distracting at night and she said it could avert her attention to other happenings on the road, such as pedestrians. Driscoll has had her photo taken at the light, but never received a ticket.

Insurance rates and driver's licenses are not affected by the violation. If the fine is paid late, however, the Department of Licensing can hold vehicle tabs until the ticket is paid in full. Even if the camera flashes, it does not necessarily mean that the vehicle's registered owner will be issued a ticket. One flash is to see if the car comes to a complete stop, while the other visual is of the vehicle going through the intersection.

Within the ticket packet issued to the vehicle owner, there is a picture of the violation and also an online link to see a complete video of the vehicle making the alleged violation. The videos are evaluated by officers and then the ticket is issued. Like a normal traffic ticket, going to traffic court is an option if the violation is questionable by the owner of the vehicle.

There are four intersections with these cameras that cover up to four lanes in one direction. North and southbound Division Street at Francis Avenue, northbound Hamilton Street at Mission Avenue, and southbound Browne Street at Sprague Avenue.

For questions or concerns about the red light cameras, call (509) 625–4181 or e-mail photored@spokanepolice.org.