Cameras Everywhere

Several years ago, we were introduced to those dreaded red light cameras. These cameras were initially installed at several busy downtown intersections. Of course, the politicians told us the cameras were being put in place "for our safety". But in reality, it was just another way to pick the pockets of the working class.

I drive through downtown Baltimore regularly, and it's not uncommon to hear people locking up their brakes as the traffic light turns yellow. Who can blame them for not wanting to get a $75 photo ticket? Of course, this always creates the potential for a rear end collision. But remember, these red light cameras are here to keep us safe.

As politicians normally do, they ignored the public's general opposition to these cameras and proceeded to push for more of them. There's no denying that the cameras were a steady source of revenue for their budgets. So, not surprising, they looked into even more ways to milk daily commuters.

Before long, the speed cameras were born. Using the ol' smoke and mirrors trick, the speed cameras were rolled into school zones and "construction" zones. I mean, how could anyone object to giving a speeding ticket to someone blazing through a school zone? When politicians tell you "We're doing it for the kids", in my opinion, they're usually masking their true intentions.

The same could be said of construction zones. Of course, people should drive responsibly in an area where men are working. But the problem I have is that I hardly ever any work being done. On the Baltimore beltway, there's a construction zone near the Liberty Road exit. This is the most inactive "work zone" I've ever seen. For the most part, the only work being done is by the red light camera (which works around the clock). The worse part about all of this is that people are well aware of the camera and they slow down to a crawl to avoid ticket. Of course, this always creates a massive traffic backup. But that's ok because all of this makes things safer, right?

There's no doubt in my mind that these cameras were installed more in the name of profit than for public safety. Call me cynical, but I believe that it's always about the money.

To be fair, I guess if you drive at the posted speeds and don;t go through red lights, you'll likely be ok. However, with any technology, there are glitches and mishaps. And if I'm not mistaken, there's something in the Sixth Amendment that gives us the right to face our accuser. How are we supposed to face an accuser that's not even human? Will they cart they camera into the courtroom and set it in the witness chair?

Plus, shouldn't we at least get the opportunity to talk our way out of a speeding ticket to real cop? I mean, how are you going to explain to a camera that you were doing 55 in a 40 because you're suffering from Irritable Bowel Syndrome??

I guess there will always be mixed opinions on the red light/speeding cameras. But from most of the people I've spoken to, it seems that there's still a general feeling of disapproval. But like a tax, once it's put in place, it's never going away. In fact, it usually gets worse. So, expect to see more cameras coming to a location near you.....

KW