Red Light Cameras

[dingbat35]

I am being prosecuted for crossing a red light camera at 0.9 seconds in a 40mph zone. I have a Department of Transport Trafic Advisory Leaflet 2/03 says "at high speed sites there should be a delay before the camera is activated of at least 1 second...". High speed is defined as >35mph. The light was amber for 3 seconds. If you take reaction time into account then you need to brake at ~0.6g to stop from 40mph. This is about 100% braking effort in the wet. I, initially braked (not hard enough) and then accelerated. I recommend that all drivers brake very very hard to stop for the red light as this will increase safety.....in the US they are increasing amber times to 3.9 seconds in 40 mph zones after complaints about red light cameras. The lights are designed to change when drivers are not in the "dilemma" zone, and in my case it would have been safe to continue, although in a dilemma I initially braked. But THINK if you do brake, then 100% braking may be required to stop. ...

Question - should I appeal on the basis of the DOTs own advice about timing?

[RATTER15]

You seem to have it all worked out mate, but why is this in Animals and Nature anyway?

[Cetti]

dingbat, Your question would be better in the Motoring category.

[gen2]

. . . but will your dog survive the 100% braking? Is it securely harnessed in the back?

[lankeela]

When I was taught to drive, I was taught to slow down and change gear approaching traffic lights, anticipating that they might change.

Lets face it you've got to pay up and shut up.

[CSG2306]

Hi,

You are not flashed until you actually go through the red light. If you pass the light on amber you will not be flashed.

It is obvious to one and all that you "jumped the lights" why moan, you were the one in control of your vehicle.

Regards

[Si_D]

I just gotta say, some people are far too harsh with their comments. Stop pretending you're perfect drivers and never make a single mistake!

I was thinking about this the other day. 2 weeks ago the light changed to amber really late, I panicked a bit and didn't know whether to brake or accelerate. I accelerated. It was wet at the time and I did't think that braking would stop me in time.

I learnt from that and reduce my speed in anticipation when I come up to lights with cameras. I'm not so sure theres someone watching the road, ready to turn the light red on unsuspecting motorists ;)

If there should be a delay of 1 second and you got flashed at 0.9 i guess you might have a bit of hope pursuing that. Less than a second is hardly reckless.