Tampa, like many other major cities in the United States, has implemented a red light camera program to improve traffic safety and reduce the number of accidents caused by red light runners. If you’re a driver in Tampa, it’s essential to know where these cameras are located to avoid getting a ticket. In this article, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive guide to red light cameras in Tampa, including their locations, how they work, and tips on how to avoid getting caught.
How Red Light Cameras Work
Red light cameras are automated systems that use sensors and cameras to detect and capture images of vehicles that run red lights. The cameras are typically installed at intersections with a high incidence of red light running and are equipped with sensors that detect when a vehicle enters the intersection after the light has turned red. When a vehicle is detected running a red light, the camera takes a photo of the vehicle’s license plate and a video of the incident.
The cameras are usually triggered by one of two methods:
Inductive Loop Sensors
These sensors are embedded in the road and detect the presence of a vehicle by measuring the change in inductance caused by the vehicle’s presence. When a vehicle passes over the sensor, it triggers the camera to take a photo.
Video Analytics
This method uses software to analyze the video feed from the camera and detect when a vehicle has entered the intersection after the light has turned red.
Locations of Red Light Cameras in Tampa
The City of Tampa has installed red light cameras at several intersections throughout the city. Here are some of the locations:
Eastbound Hillsborough Avenue at North 22nd Street
This intersection has a high incidence of red light running, and the camera is triggered by inductive loop sensors.
Westbound Hillsborough Avenue at North 30th Street
This intersection is another high-risk location, and the camera uses video analytics to detect red light runners.
Northbound Dale Mabry Highway at West Spruce Street
This intersection has a high volume of traffic, and the camera is equipped with inductive loop sensors to detect vehicles that run the red light.
Southbound Dale Mabry Highway at West Kennedy Boulevard
This intersection is a major thoroughfare, and the camera uses video analytics to detect red light runners.
Eastbound Westshore Boulevard at South West Shore Boulevard
This intersection has a high incidence of red light running, and the camera is triggered by inductive loop sensors.
Westbound Westshore Boulevard at South Lois Avenue
This intersection is another high-risk location, and the camera uses video analytics to detect red light runners.
It’s worth noting that the City of Tampa regularly reviews and updates the locations of red light cameras to ensure that they are effective in reducing accidents and improving traffic safety.
Tips on How to Avoid Getting Caught by Red Light Cameras
While it’s impossible to avoid getting caught by red light cameras entirely, there are some tips that can reduce your chances of getting a ticket:
Obey the Law
The most obvious way to avoid getting caught by red light cameras is to obey the law and come to a complete stop at red lights.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings
Pay attention to the road and the traffic signals. If you’re approaching an intersection, make sure you have enough time to stop before the light turns red.
Don’t Speed
Speeding increases your chances of running a red light, so make sure you’re driving at a safe speed.
Use a GPS or Mapping App
Many GPS and mapping apps, such as Waze or Google Maps, provide real-time traffic updates and alert you to the presence of red light cameras.
What to Do If You Get a Red Light Camera Ticket
If you receive a red light camera ticket, you have several options:
Pay the Fine
You can pay the fine online, by mail, or in person. The fine for running a red light in Tampa is $158.
Contest the Ticket
If you believe the ticket was issued in error, you can contest it by submitting a written statement or appearing in court.
Take a Driver Improvement Course
If you’re eligible, you can take a driver improvement course to avoid points being assessed against your license.
Conclusion
Red light cameras are an effective way to improve traffic safety and reduce the number of accidents caused by red light runners. By knowing the locations of red light cameras in Tampa and following the tips outlined in this article, you can reduce your chances of getting a ticket. Remember, the most important thing is to obey the law and drive safely.
| Location | Intersection | Trigger Method |
|---|---|---|
| Eastbound Hillsborough Avenue | North 22nd Street | Inductive Loop Sensors |
| Westbound Hillsborough Avenue | North 30th Street | Video Analytics |
| Northbound Dale Mabry Highway | West Spruce Street | Inductive Loop Sensors |
| Southbound Dale Mabry Highway | West Kennedy Boulevard | Video Analytics |
| Eastbound Westshore Boulevard | South West Shore Boulevard | Inductive Loop Sensors |
| Westbound Westshore Boulevard | South Lois Avenue | Video Analytics |
Note: The information provided in this article is subject to change, and it’s always best to check with the City of Tampa for the most up-to-date information on red light camera locations and fines.
What are red light cameras and how do they work?
Red light cameras are automated systems that capture images of vehicles that run red lights at intersections. These cameras are usually installed at busy intersections and are triggered by sensors that detect when a vehicle enters the intersection after the light has turned red. The cameras then capture a series of images, including the vehicle’s license plate, make, and model, as well as the traffic signal.
The images are then reviewed by law enforcement personnel to determine if a violation occurred. If a violation is confirmed, a citation is issued to the vehicle’s owner. The cameras are designed to improve safety at intersections by deterring drivers from running red lights, which is a leading cause of accidents.
Where are red light cameras located in Tampa?
Red light cameras are located at various intersections throughout Tampa. The city has installed cameras at busy intersections, including those with high accident rates. Some of the locations include major intersections along highways and roads, such as Dale Mabry Highway, Westshore Boulevard, and Hillsborough Avenue.
To find out if a specific intersection has a red light camera, you can visit the City of Tampa’s website, which provides a list of locations with cameras. You can also look for signs at intersections that indicate the presence of a red light camera.
How much is the fine for running a red light in Tampa?
The fine for running a red light in Tampa is $158. This fine is issued to the vehicle’s owner if a red light camera captures evidence of a violation. The fine is the same regardless of whether the vehicle is registered in Florida or out of state.
In addition to the fine, points may be assessed against the driver’s license. If the driver accumulates too many points, their license may be suspended. It’s worth noting that the fine and points can be contested in court, but this requires appearing before a judge and presenting evidence.
Can I contest a red light camera citation in Tampa?
Yes, you can contest a red light camera citation in Tampa. If you receive a citation and believe it was issued in error, you can request a hearing to contest the citation. You will need to submit a written request for a hearing within a certain timeframe, usually 30 days from the date of the citation.
At the hearing, you will have the opportunity to present evidence and argue your case before a judge. If the judge finds in your favor, the citation will be dismissed, and you will not have to pay the fine. However, if the judge upholds the citation, you will be required to pay the fine and any additional fees.
Do red light cameras reduce accidents in Tampa?
Studies have shown that red light cameras can reduce accidents at intersections. By deterring drivers from running red lights, cameras can help prevent accidents that occur when vehicles collide with other vehicles or pedestrians in the intersection.
According to the City of Tampa, the number of accidents at intersections with red light cameras has decreased since the cameras were installed. While the cameras are not a foolproof solution, they can be an effective tool in improving safety at busy intersections.
Are red light cameras an invasion of privacy?
Red light cameras do capture images of vehicles and their occupants, which has raised concerns about privacy. However, the cameras are designed to capture only the necessary information to enforce traffic laws, such as the vehicle’s license plate and make.
The images captured by red light cameras are not used for any other purpose than to enforce traffic laws. The City of Tampa has implemented measures to protect the privacy of individuals, including limiting access to the images and ensuring that they are stored securely.
Can I get a red light camera citation dismissed if I was not driving the vehicle?
If you receive a red light camera citation and were not driving the vehicle at the time of the alleged violation, you may be able to get the citation dismissed. You will need to provide evidence, such as a sworn affidavit, that you were not driving the vehicle.
You will also need to provide the name and address of the person who was driving the vehicle, if known. If the citation is dismissed, you will not be responsible for paying the fine. However, if you do not provide the required information, you may still be held responsible for the citation.