Third phase of life-saving intersection cameras rolled out
By Contributor
The third phase of B.C.’s upgraded and expanded Intersection Safety Camera program has gone live at 35 more sites, in an effort to save lives and reduce the almost 250 crashes that occur daily at intersections throughout the province.
The cameras detect and photograph vehicles running a red light, and are expected to reduce casualty crashes at ISC sites by about six per cent annually.
This is the third phase of a joint provincial government, ICBC and police program to upgrade and expand intersection safety cameras from 120 sites, with 30 film cameras rotating among them, to 140 sites with a dedicated digital camera at each location.
A team of experts, comprising RCMP, Police Services, ICBC, and engineering and traffic safety specialists, helped select B.C.’s highest-risk intersections. Site selection was based on where cameras would be the most effective in reducing serious crashes and fatalities.
Not all cameras will be activated at the same time. The cameras will be operated strategically, when historical and current data show the risk is greatest. This will maximize both the benefits and cost-effectiveness of the expanded program.
The first two sets of 35 upgraded cameras went live earlier this year. This means that 105 of the 140 sites identified for safety cameras are now active. Full program implementation is expected by the end of 2011.
The ISC Program was introduced in B.C. in 1999 to cut the high incidence of intersection crashes, which are often the most serious because they involve high-speed and side-impact crashes.
Ticket revenue from the cameras will continue to be distributed among all municipalities across B.C. to enhance their policing and community-based public safety programs. Distribution of revenue is not based on the number of cameras within a community.
Quick facts
- All ticket revenue goes to B.C. municipalities.
- Violation tickets carry a $167 fine, which can be reduced by $25 if paid within 30 days.
- Vehicles that have entered the intersection before the light turns red will not receive a ticket.
- A ticket is not issued if a traffic signal is in flashing red mode.
- Signs are prominently posted at the intersections to advise drivers that ISC cameras are in place.
- Registered vehicle owners do not receive driver penalty points for red light camera offences.
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