Intersection Safety Cameras Aim To Curb Red-Light Running

Understanding The Violations
A Red-Light Violation occurs when a vehicle crosses the white stop line after the traffic signal has turned red. While vehicles already within the intersection when the light changes are exempt, those entering afterwards are subject to penalties. The primary aim of the Intersection Safety Camera Program is to deter these violations by capturing video footage of offending vehicles and issuing fines accordingly.

The red-light cameras are strategically placed at several high-risk intersections across Sunny Isles Beach:

• Eastbound Sunny Isles Boulevard at Signalized Pedestrian Crosswalk (200 block)
• 183rd Street and Collins Avenue (North and Southbound Lanes)
• 193rd Street and Collins Avenue (Southbound Lanes only)
• 159rd Street and Collins Avenue (North and Southbound Lanes)

These locations were selected based on historical data indicating a higher incidence of Red-Light Violations and associated Traffic Accidents.

The cameras are equipped with State-Of-The-Art Technology and will automatically detect vehicles entering the intersection after the light has turned red. Once a potential violation is identified, video footage is recorded and subsequently reviewed by the Sunny Isles Beach Police Department to confirm the Infraction. “Photo Enforced” signs will be posted at these intersections. The cameras will be activated by sensors that detect vehicle movement when the traffic signal turns red. Each video recording is then reviewed by the Sunny Isles Beach Police Department before a notice of violation is issued.

During the Initial Phase from August 1st to August 31st, 2024, the program will issue warnings to violators. From September 1st onwards, a Fine of $158 will be imposed for each confirmed Red-Light Violation. It's important to note that these fines are Civil Violations and do not lead to points on the Driver’s License or affect Insurance Premiums.

Drivers who receive a violation notice have the option to contest the Fine. This can be done by requesting a hearing or submitting a Sworn and Notarized Affidavit identifying the actual driver at the time of the violation. Detailed instructions for contesting violations are available online and must be adhered to within the specified time frame to avoid further penalties.

Failure to pay the Initial Fine or successfully challenge the citation will result in the issuance of a Uniform Traffic Citation, with the case forwarded to the Miami-Dade County Clerk of Court. At this stage, the fine increases to $277, and non-compliance may lead to the suspension of driving privileges until the matter is resolved.

Community Response
The introduction of the Intersection Safety Camera Program has elicited mixed reactions from the community. While some residents applaud the initiative as a crucial step towards improving Road Safety and reducing accidents, others express concerns about privacy and the potential for Erroneous Citations. City officials reassure residents that the program adheres to strict guidelines and is focused solely on Enhancing Public Safety.

Looking ahead, the City of Sunny Isles Beach plans to monitor the effectiveness of the program closely. Data collected on Traffic Violations and accident rates will be analyzed to determine the program’s impact. Depending on the outcomes, there may be opportunities to expand the use of intersection safety cameras to additional locations within the city.

As the Intersection Safety Camera Program prepares to go live, motorists are urged to familiarize themselves with the rules of the road and exercise caution when approaching signalized intersections. Ultimately, the goal of this initiative is not only to enforce compliance with Traffic Laws but also to foster a safer and more secure environment for all who travel through Sunny Isles Beach.

For more information on the Intersection Safety Camera Program, including detailed guidelines on contesting violations, visit: https://secure.redlightviolations.com/ - Or call: (305) 947-0606.