NYC Red Light Camera Program Under Attack

Three motorists commenced a suit this week against New York City claiming that they were illegally issued red light camera tickets. Specifically, they claim that the yellow lights at their respective intersections were less than 3 seconds and, therefore, violated Federal law. A recent AAA study found that four red light cameras were issuing tickets even though the yellow light lasted 2.53 to 2.84 seconds.

Attorneys for the motorists intend to seek class action status and, then, obtain refunds for all victims of the illegal lights as well as halt of the program until its fixed.

It is really not likely that they’ll get the program ended (even temporarily). The City has operated this program since 2007, currently has 318 red light cameras, and last year alone generated $47 million. It will be interesting to see what, if any, relief will be afforded to motorists.