Bonus Question: Are red light cameras purchased by the city because they are concerned for your safety or are they another part of their revenue enhancement program?
You know the answer. Money. No matter what they tell you, it’s money.
Revenue. I noticed the last few times I visited the Chicago megalopolis, that most of the lights have a fairly long yellow. You sort of get used to how long they last. But I think they are trying to intentionally lull you into a certain expectation that is wrong.
I say that because, what I noticed was that some lights are very short compared to all the others. Sure, they are the “three second minimum” (yes, I timed one). But the key is this: Every single short light was a red light camera enforced light.
So yes, they are OBVIOUSLY revenue sources.
In my state of Kentucky we have no cameras. But what happens is there is a two or three second “all lights red” period when they switch. Much safer than just slapping up cameras for fun and profit.
I told my local council member (a Democrat) to vote against the bill authorizing red light cameras because “these things are the veritable touchstone of public corruption”.
To my surprise and delight she voted against them.
The other jackals, hungry for the revenue, voted yea.