What is a Red Light Camera (RLC) system?
A red-light camera (RLC) is an automated enforcement device designed to detect and photograph vehicles that enter an intersection after the traffic signal has turned red. These systems aim to deter red-light running, thereby enhancing road safety by reducing the likelihood of collisions at intersections.
How Red-Light Cameras Work
Red-light cameras are typically installed at intersections with a history of traffic violations or accidents. They operate continuously, monitoring traffic signals and vehicle movements. When a vehicle enters the intersection after the light has turned red, the system captures images and sometimes video footage of the violation. These recordings usually include the vehicle’s license plate, the state of the traffic light, and the precise time of the offense. This evidence is then reviewed by law enforcement or designated officials, and if validated, a citation is issued to the vehicle’s registered owner.History of Red-Light Camera Systems
The concept of automated traffic enforcement dates back to the 1960s when Dutch company Gatso developed the first traffic cameras. These early systems were primarily used for speed enforcement. The adoption of red-light cameras began in the early 1990s, with New York City installing the first such cameras in the United States. By 2012, the use of red-light cameras had expanded to 533 communities across the country. However, due to factors like community opposition and funding challenges, this number decreased to 338 communities by January 2022.Manufacturers of Red-Light Camera Systems
Several companies specialize in the development and deployment of red-light camera systems. Notable manufacturers include:- Verra Mobility: Formerly known as American Traffic Solutions (ATS), Verra Mobility is a leading provider of smart transportation solutions, including red-light and speed enforcement cameras. The company partners with cities and municipalities to enhance road safety through advanced technology. Verra Mobility is publicly traded on the NASDAQ stock exchange under the symbol VRRM.
- Sensys Gatso Group: Headquartered in Sweden, Sensys Gatso Group specializes in traffic enforcement technologies, offering solutions for speed and red-light enforcement, as well as traffic monitoring services.
- Jenoptik: Based in Germany, Jenoptik provides a range of traffic enforcement technologies, including red-light camera systems. The company is listed on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange and is included in the TecDAX stock index.
- Redflex Traffic Systems: An Australian company with a significant presence in the United States, Redflex offers red-light and speed enforcement cameras. The company has been involved in various traffic enforcement projects across multiple states.
- Affiliated Computer Services (ACS): Founded in 1988 and headquartered in Dallas, Texas, was a Fortune 500 company specializing in business process outsourcing and information technology services. In 2010, ACS was acquired by Xerox Corporation, becoming a subsidiary that expanded Xerox’s service offerings globally.