Red Light Cameras: Where Are They and What Do They Record?

There are currently more than 150 red light cameras operated by municipalities in Ontario, including 77 red light cameras in Toronto alone. The purpose behind the use of red light cameras is to change driver behaviour, reduce collisions and save lives.

The cameras work by capturing an image of a vehicle which has entered an intersection against a red traffic light. Generally the camera is triggered when a vehicle enters the intersection (passes the stop-bar) after the traffic signal has turned red. By automatically photographing vehicles that run red lights, the photo is evidence that assists authorities in their enforcement of traffic laws. Currently, the fine for running a red light is $325.

At present, drivers cannot receive tickets for other traffic infractions based on the photographs captured by the red light cameras.

Since the red light camera has been in operation, there has reportedly been a decrease in collisions resulting from drivers running red lights.