Much debate has circulated around the use of camera vans and the effectiveness of fixed camera installation to help prevent speeding in school zones. Lakewood school zones in particular have had camera vans in position to catch such speeders. However, according to a report from thenewstribune.com, these roving vans should be removed within two to three weeks due to an amended contract with Redflex Traffic Systems. Lakewood’s city council voted 3-2 to install fixed cameras near Park Lodge Elementary and Lochburn Middle School, in addition to having uniformed officers periodically patrol the school zones.
The main argument residents seem to make in regard to speeding cameras and the tickets that result is that the cameras are error-prone and the tickets are more difficult to challenge than those issued directly by an officer. In opposition to the amendment to install fixed cameras, a councilman referred to the process as a “disproportionate reaction, or solution, to a problem we don’t have.” Undoubtedly behind the councilman’s statement is the fact that officials have noted there hasn’t been a serious pedestrian-auto accident in a school zone in Lakewood’s 13-year history. However, in argument against the councilman’s stance, perhaps the reason for this is the very existence of the cameras.
Pertaining to the complaints of residents that the cameras are inaccurate in “capturing” speeders, local Police Chief stated, “Technology has bugs, and we will try our best to work them out”.
Although technology can falter, so can the judgment of a motorist. If the presence of speeding cameras can help control speeding and prevent accidents from happening, then how can residents argue against a decrease in personal injury and death?
As experienced auto accident lawyers in Washington, it is our hope that less incidents involving pedestrians and vehicles occur so that innocent victims do not have to suffer from the actions of a negligent motorist. At the Bernard Law Group, we have helped many auto accident and pedestrian victims seek the compensation they need to help pay for the medical treatment and care their catastrophic injuries require. If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, please contact the Bernard Law Group today for a free consultation.
Source report: http://www.thenewstribune.com/news/local/story/889590.html