OUTLINE OF MY THIRD ORAL PRESENTATION

“Red-Light Cameras”

Edmonton, The University of Alberta Press, 2002.

By: J. Peter Rothe (p.291-303)

Mike Pickren

Explanation: As drivers enter the intersection a second after the light turns red they are caught on camera

Definitions: These cameras are used to target the high risk drivers

Example: These new systems are expected to multiply tickets by 6 times in BC.

Relation: We lack trust of each other and fear what goes on behind our backs

Teaching: It may be hard to teach because many wont take to the new form of big brother

*note: The photo equipment manufacturers are willing to provide the technology cost-free if each jurisdiction agree to give a certain amount of tickets per defined period.

Explanation: Justifications are “socially approved accounts that assert the positive value of a claim

Definition: The running of red lights leads to many fatal crashes. The likelihood of a camera being installed is increased by the number of citations, complaints, cars, crashes and speed at a given intersection.

Example: 1994 in San Francisco a motorist ran a red light and injured 13 pedestrians. This event resulted in the rallying of red light cameras in the city.

Relation: Justification is simple as long as it directly relates to life saving strategies

Teaching: This should not be taught but rather debated amongst the individuals of each county.

*note: Traffic supervisor quote: “Being hit by a 3,000 pound car is a real invasion of one’s rights

Explanation: Many studies measured the effectiveness of the cameras by seeing whether or not they modified the behaviors of drivers and whether locals accepted them.

Definition: Would local people of an area actually prefer the cameras after a while?

Example: After 6 months 80% of Oxnard residents supported the cameras.

Relation: It makes us feel safer, thus we like them

Teaching: We should do trial runs of the cameras and if locals take to them, great.

*note: An increase in yellow from 3 to 4 seconds reduced red light running from 4.8% to 1.8%

My Homepage: http://www.soc.hawaii.edu/leonj/409af2004/pickren/home/

http://electronics.howstuffworks.com/red-light-camera.htm

http://www.weeklystandard.com/Content/Public/Articles/000/000/001/078ftoqz.asp

http://www.city.toronto.on.ca/transportation/redlight_cameras/index.htm