In an effort to enhance safety at Lakemoor's most dangerous intersection, the Village Board approved the installation of an automated traffic enforcement system, also known as Red Light Cameras, for the intersection of Illinois Route 120 & U.S. Route 12. These cameras will be functional on January 22, 2012.
According to recent studies conducted by the U.S. Dept. of Transportation, Red Light Enforcement Programs can decrease red light violations up to 60%. Traffic accidents caused by red light runners are among the most serious, often resulting in severe injuries and fatalities. Studies have shown that approximately 1,000 people die and 176,000 people are injured annually in the United States because of drivers running red lights. There are Two Types of Red Light Violations: (1) Right turn on Red without coming to a complete stop and (2) Entering an intersection after the traffic signal has turned red.
A common misconception is that the cameras will be photographing everyone as they drive thru the community. In fact, Sensors placed in the pavement activate the camera only when a vehicle enters the intersection during the red light cycle. A total of three (3) photographs will be taken plus 8-10 seconds of digital video. The images include: the car entering the red light intersection, the car passing thru the intersection and finally, a close-up of the license plate. All three (3) photographs, plus a link to view the video footage on-line, will be provided to the vehicle's registered owner as part of the information included with the mailed violation. According to Illinois Law, it is illegal to photograph the faces of either drivers or passengers.
More detailed information on the Red Light Enforcement Program can be found by clicking here to view some Frequently Asked Questions. If you have any questions that are not answered in the FAQ document or need to speak to someone at the Red Light Enforcement Program vendor please call 877-262-3318