A traffic enforcement camera (Image source: Wikipedia Commons).

Red light cameras have become a familiar presence on certain heavily-trafficked intersections of New York City. Now, in the aftermath of several gruesome and fatal crashes, both state and city officials are increasingly supporting the introduction of cameras to punish drivers who endanger others by speeding.

A recent experiment by local reporter Will Bredderman showed that many, if not most, Bay Ridge drivers speed – And data provided by the advocacy group Transportation Alternatives shows similarly high numbers of speeders in other neighborhoods.

And while traffic enforcement via candid camera has raised both ethical and legal questions, supporters of automated speed enforcement devices say they are crucial for improved public safety on city streets Continue reading »