PHOTO: Some have suggested and expressed concern over cameras placed on street lights at some locations in town, thinking they may be red-light cameras trying to nab drivers who run red lights. But Police Chief Rob Lawson confirmed to TLS that they are obviously not red-light cameras – which were never approved by the township – rather cameras belonging to the DOT used for traffic information.
Besides, says Chief Lawson, red-light camers are far from becoming a reality in Lakewood, and even if proposed would require the approval from the Township Committee.
In March, TLS reported on the proposed idea of installing such cameras at several high-speed intersections. In a TLS poll on the issue, 53% of voters said they did not think it was a good idea, and 47% liked the idea.
Some commentators said the cameras would create a hazard as it would increase the chances to a rear-end accident caused by motorists who fear blowing a red light.
To that claim, an official says, “I’d rather be rear-ended by a vehicle at the light, than hit by a vehicle in middle of the intersection”.
In Brick, Chambers Bridge Road and Brick Boulevard as well as Chambers Bridge and Route 70, have red-light cameras. Fines are $85. TLS-CCP.
ever wonder how the light at sunset and james automatically starts timing down when you pull up? it is because of these cameras that sense the presence of a car and start the light changing process. It is much cheaper than to put sensors under the ground like they used to do.
Why would anyone complain about red light cameras? Only someone who runs red lights, that is, breaking the law, would worry about it and complain. Oh, wait, this is the town where people love to disregard traffic laws and complain when they get caught.
If red light cameras were installed in Lakewood, it is likely that taxpayers would get the benefit from the extraordinarily large new revenue source. (TIC)
The roadways would become more safe also.
whats wrong with cameras catching red light violators?
Too bad, they should let people believe they are red light cameras.
put up those cameras
Why would anyone complain about a red light camera UNLESS you are one of the law breakers who run red lights!!!???
I agree with the above comments- nothing should have been said. Think of the accidents that could have been avoided and if they were real cameras== gosh the revenue this town, excuse me CITY, would make$$$
Red light cameras would be a waste of money. Anyone who gets a ticket would call someone to get it taken care of.
so whats wrong with red light cameras ,if you run red lights it would be a problem ~ SO WHAT! you deserve to be ticketed
They should put cameras on the stop signs in town. That might actually make a real difference.
There are a few reasons why law abiding citizens would not want red light cameras. One reason is because they are then responsible for their car, even if someone else is driving.
Another reason is, as others have alluded to, because people will not use common sense in choosing whether to go through the light as it turns red, or make a short stop. Saying that a rear end collision is better than a head on collision after running a red light presents a false dichotomy – missing a red light by fractions of a second does not invariably lead to a head on collision.
What I think is the most important reason is that it has the potential to be a moneymaker for government. If it were possible to administer such a program in a way that it is solely for public safety, it might be worthwhile, but as long as it makes money, the government will abuse it. In some municipalities, law enforcement has deliberately made yellow lights too short so that the cameras would catch more violaters. As it generates money, it would not be surprising to see a push by politicians for red lights on every corner – cloaked, like these things usually are, in the guise of public safety.
If you are tailgating, yes you might have a problem. If you are going so fast that you can’t stop in time for the light without making a short stop…it’s your problem.
You seem to have a government conspiracy theory thing going on in your head. They are not “out to get you”. They may be out to make the roads safer and cut down on drivers who are not paying attention to their driving…such as, people taking on the phone, I’d love to see red lights on every corner in Lakewood and a red light camera on each light. The accident rate in Lakewood is way out of control and it’s not the Mexican’s fault. Can’t put the blame on them for this one!
Those comments were addressing Chaim’s remarks, not from Chaim.
Red light cameras have not been proven to improve safety. Many studies show that cars coming to a screeching halt out of fear of tickets are very dangerous.
All those saying you break the law you should get the ticket what about speed cameras going even one mile above the limit is illegal are you really saying you don’t drive above the speed limit
to slur says:
not true !!
bad drivers are the problem
Calm down You will Never see them in Lakewood
Red light camera’s will catch the vehicle, but not the actual driver.
Some of you guys on here will address the issue of the vehicle being your responsibility, but let’s be realistic and not live in a bubble. Everyone here has let a family member or spouse use their vehicle with that being said red light drive through will be added up and cause less travel, higher insurance for the owner, the owner receiving higher volume of tickets, and your kids will have to have the car and insurance put in their name (less discounts) less disposal income —> less ways for consumers to get to the local businesses—> less revenue for local businesses creates cost reductions—> less jobs —> less taxes—-> at some point less red light cameras–> back to the basics….again it being approved by a township committee will have to enact some type of time/cost analysis will prove or disprove my position.
what we need is stop sign camaras
how about some green light cameras
To #2 you are right……Also camera’s are needed in Lakewood its a wonderful idea. Lots of money for the town………………….I bet we will make lots of money with the way people drive here… Camera’s are a wonderful thing…..