LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — Drivers who run red lights could soon be caught thanks to technology. State lawmakers are considering Senate Bill 43, that would allow red light cameras to be installed at major intersections under certain circumstances.
Nevada was one of six states that the National Transportation Safety Board recommended use these cameras. They hope the cameras can decrease deadly car crashes throughout the valley.
According to Zero Fatalities NV, the law would reduce red light violations, without diverting law enforcement resources from other areas.
Here are the crash statistics for Nevada for 2015-2017, according to @DriveSafeNV. Lawmakers considering allowing red light cameras to cut back on deadly crashes. pic.twitter.com/F8wIkttoF3
— Marissa Kynaston (@marissaktnv) March 22, 2019
However, not everybody is on board with the cameras.
"We think it's unnecessary, we think it's intrusive," says Tod Story with the ACLU of Nevada. Story says they're concerned the cameras would invade a driver's privacy. Story also says there is just not enough evidence to show they actually cut back on crashes.
One study by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety found that the cameras can reduce deadly red light crashes by 21%. However, other studies show the cameras can actually increase rear-end crashes.
State lawmakers are considering a bill that would allow red light cameras to be installed across the valley. Do you think it’s a good idea?
— Marissa Kynaston (@marissaktnv) March 22, 2019
It's still not clear if or when the Senate committee could vote on the bill, but if it passes, drivers could face a fine of at least $50 if they run a red light.
