As of June 2014, there are at least four Illinois laws that allow for speed and red light cameras and there are at approximately 70 communities that are using these cameras. Accordingly, it is important to know how and where these cameras may be used, what the penalties may be if you are caught speeding or running a red light, and what to do if you were hurt by another driver.
Illinois Red Light and Speed Camera Laws
According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, Illinois allows:
- Speed cameras statewide in construction zones and on Illinois Toll Authority roads.
- Speed cameras in municipalities with 1,000,000 or more people. These cameras may only be used in safety zones which include the areas within one-eighth of a mile from a school or park. These cameras may only be used by state police and a state police officer must be present and witness the event in order for a penalty to be issued.
- Red light cameras in the following counties: Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, Madison, McHenry, St. Clair, and Will. However, there must be a local ordinance in order for the cameras to be used.
- Railroad crossing cameras. With a local ordinance, any municipality or county can use automated enforcement at railroad crossings provided they work with the Illinois Department of Transportation or Illinois Commerce Commission.
The penalties for violating these laws typically include fines and in some cases may include community service or completion of a traffic safety program.
Have You Been Hurt by a Driver Who Ran a Red Light or Who Was Speeding?
Cameras may discourage these dangerous behaviors, but cameras alone can’t prevent all crashes. If another driver’s negligence has caused your injury then it is important to know what you can do to recover. Please watch our free videos and read our free book, The Ultimate Guide for Automobile Accident Victims, today to learn more.