Governor Hochul signed the largest expansion of red light camera programs in state history
Legislation S9504A/A.3120A
Governor Kathy Hochul today enacted legislation with the stated goal of improving road safety, expanding existing red light camera initiatives across New York and launching a new one in the Hudson Valley, according to her office's announcement.
However, this move raises several concerns:
Revenue Over Safety: Critics argue that red light cameras serve more as revenue generators than safety tools. Research, such as that found in the Journal of Transportation Engineering, suggests these systems might actually be set up to maximize fines by shortening yellow light times, thereby increasing the likelihood of violations and potentially causing more accidents as drivers make sudden stops.
Increased Rear-End Collisions: Contrary to the intended safety benefits, studies like those in Accident Analysis & Prevention indicate that red light cameras could lead to a rise in rear-end collisions. This increase is attributed to drivers braking abruptly to avoid fines, which could make roads less safe rather than safer.