Speed and red light cameras are a part of the driving community's way of life. These cameras have been put in place to help lower speed and the number of accidents and fatalities on our roads. Throughout this essay I will highlight issues that relate to this topic including the technology used and the impact that these deterrents have on individuals, society and the community.
The causes of accidents on our roads may include such factors as alcohol, drugs, use of mobile phones by driver, Fatigue and failing to stop at red lights. But one of the most frequent causes of fatal accidents is SPEED. The Speed camera works by using a data recorder. Speed cameras allow police to track the speed of vehicles. Since the South Australian Police started the South Australian Speed Camera Program in 1990 the speed of cars has dropped from 19.57 to 8.97.
Red Light cameras work by taking photos of the cars if they go through a red light. The cameras are activated when a vehicle goes over a plate that is laid on the road. All tyres must go over the plate to activate the camera. When the camera is activated it gives out a large flash of light when it takes the photo. The camera will only work if the light is red.
Speed and Red Light cameras clearly lower the road toll, Having less hospital beds occupied by accident trauma victims reduces costs to the community e.g. less taxes to pay for medical expenses and running hospitals.
The individual is impacted on by their fines they pay e.g. the minimum fine can be over $200 this money is more than an average person takes home in 2 days. This money can be better spent paying bills, buying food or clothes. Why pay for pure stupidity and speeding fines. The other impact on the individual is the consequences are if they hurt or kill someone because of their stupidity and speeding. .