Discussion:

This report discusses Red Light Cameras (RLC). A separate report (S 45/2020) related to Automated Speed Enforcement (ASE) is also being brought forward for Council consideration.

A red light running camera is a type of traffic enforcement camera that captures an image of a vehicle that enters an intersection in spite of the traffic signal indicating red (during red phase). The camera automatically takes two photos of the vehicle; one entering and one proceeding through the intersection. The photo is evidence that assists authorities in enforcing traffic laws. Generally, the camera is triggered by movement of a vehicle as it passes the stop bar after the associated signal has turned red.

The key reasons why municipalities have installed cameras are to change driving behaviour, reduce angled collisions, and increase safety. However, it has been reported that rear-end collisions increase.

Currently, the Highway Traffic Act requires Municipalities to be authorized to use red light cameras by amending Regulation 277/99. Changes to the Regulation as recent as December of 2019, still indicate this requirement. The process includes a submission letter to the Minister of Transportation, requesting permission to enforce this type of infraction. With this letter, documented approval from Council stating that support and intention to enter into the program must be provided.

The following are points of clarification regarding the issuance of tickets:

• Motorists already in an intersection when the signal changes to red will not be ticketed. This includes those drivers who pass the stop bar while the green or amber signal is illuminated. Only those who cross the stop bar while the red signal is illuminated will be ticketed.

• Red light cameras do not replace police officers. The red light cameras are used to complement police efforts in preventing motorists from running a red light.

• The registered license plate holder of the vehicle will receive the ticket, regardless of who is driving the vehicle. No demerit points are lost by the owner.

• Red light cameras are only capable of detecting one direction of travel at an intersection. If all 4 directions of approaches at an intersection are required to be implemented, 4 separate systems must be installed.

• Red light cameras are able to ticket right turning vehicles that do not come to a complete stop on a red light. However, this application is currently being used in a limited capacity in other Municipalities. In general, this is being utilized where there is a dedicated right turn lane only.

• Photograph images of the vehicles are taken from the rear of the vehicle and therefore no persons are identified in the photos. The Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner was consulted during the pilot development to ensure privacy concerns were minimized.