Pittsburgh Council Proposes Automated Red Light Enforcement

Pittsburgh is moving forward with legislation to implement automated red light enforcement at high-risk intersections, introduced by Councilperson Erika Strassburger. This initiative aims to tackle the alarming increase in traffic fatalities, which rose by 71% from 2018 to 2022, including 23 deaths last year due to car crashes. The automated systems will photograph vehicles running red lights, allowing the police to issue fines of $100 through the mail after validating violations. While proponents argue this technology will enhance safety and reduce reckless driving, critics express concerns about potential revenue generation and the risk of accidents from sudden stops at yellow lights. If approved, the program will follow state law requiring prior notice to drivers and will contribute any fines collected to state infrastructure improvement programs. Pittsburgh aims to join other cities nationwide that have successfully implemented similar automated enforcement strategies.