Pinellas County, located on the west coast of Florida, is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant cities, and bustling roadways. With a population of over 970,000 people, the county’s roads can get congested, especially during rush hour. To ensure public safety and reduce the number of accidents, the Pinellas County government has installed red light cameras at various intersections throughout the county. In this article, we will explore the locations of these cameras, how they work, and what you can do to avoid getting a ticket.
Understanding Red Light Cameras
Red light cameras are automated systems that capture images of vehicles that run red lights. These cameras are usually installed at intersections with a high incidence of accidents or near schools and other areas where pedestrian safety is a concern. The cameras are equipped with sensors that detect when a vehicle enters the intersection after the light has turned red. When a vehicle is detected, the camera takes a photo of the vehicle’s license plate and a video of the incident.
How Red Light Cameras Work
Red light cameras use a combination of sensors and cameras to capture images of vehicles that run red lights. Here’s a step-by-step explanation of how they work:
- Sensors detect the vehicle’s presence: The sensors, usually inductive loops or video cameras, detect when a vehicle approaches the intersection.
- The camera takes a photo: When the vehicle enters the intersection after the light has turned red, the camera takes a photo of the vehicle’s license plate.
- A video is recorded: The camera also records a video of the incident, which can be used as evidence in court.
- The images are reviewed: The photos and videos are reviewed by law enforcement officials to determine if a violation occurred.
Locations of Red Light Cameras in Pinellas County
Pinellas County has installed red light cameras at various intersections throughout the county. Here are some of the locations:
- St. Petersburg: Red light cameras are installed at several intersections in St. Petersburg, including:
- 4th Street and 22nd Street
- 34th Street and 38th Avenue
- Tyrone Boulevard and 66th Street
- Clearwater: Red light cameras are installed at several intersections in Clearwater, including:
- Gulf-to-Bay Boulevard and Belcher Road
- US-19 and Gulf-to-Bay Boulevard
- Drew Street and Hercules Avenue
- Largo: Red light cameras are installed at several intersections in Largo, including:
- Ulmerton Road and 66th Street
- East Bay Drive and Missouri Avenue
- West Bay Drive and Missouri Avenue
- Pinellas Park: Red light cameras are installed at several intersections in Pinellas Park, including:
- 66th Street and 49th Street
- 49th Street and 118th Avenue
- Park Boulevard and 49th Street
Other Locations
Red light cameras are also installed at various other locations throughout Pinellas County, including:
- Tarpon Springs: Red light cameras are installed at several intersections in Tarpon Springs, including:
- US-19 and Tarpon Avenue
- Alt-19 and Tarpon Avenue
- Dunedin: Red light cameras are installed at several intersections in Dunedin, including:
- US-19 and Main Street
- Alt-19 and Main Street
What to Do If You Receive a Red Light Camera Ticket
If you receive a red light camera ticket, there are several options you can take:
- Pay the fine: You can pay the fine online, by mail, or in person.
- Contest the ticket: You can contest the ticket by appearing in court and presenting your case.
- Take a driver improvement course: You can take a driver improvement course to avoid points on your license.
Consequences of Running a Red Light
Running a red light can have serious consequences, including:
- Fines and penalties: You can receive a fine and points on your license.
- Increased insurance rates: Your insurance rates may increase if you receive a red light camera ticket.
- Accidents and injuries: Running a red light can cause accidents and injuries to yourself and others.
Conclusion
Red light cameras are an effective way to reduce the number of accidents and improve public safety in Pinellas County. By knowing the locations of these cameras, you can take steps to avoid getting a ticket and stay safe on the roads. Remember to always follow traffic laws and regulations, and never run a red light.
Stay Safe on the Roads
By following these tips, you can stay safe on the roads and avoid getting a red light camera ticket:
- Always follow traffic laws and regulations
- Be aware of your surroundings
- Never run a red light
- Use caution when approaching intersections
By being aware of the locations of red light cameras in Pinellas County and following these tips, you can stay safe on the roads and avoid getting a ticket.
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, which are used to identify the vehicle and its owner.
The images captured by the cameras are reviewed by law enforcement personnel to determine whether a violation has occurred. If a violation is confirmed, a citation is issued to the vehicle’s owner, which includes a fine and any applicable penalties. The use of red light cameras has been shown to reduce the number of accidents caused by red-light running, and they are an effective tool for enforcing traffic laws and improving road safety.
Where are the red light cameras located in Pinellas County?
Pinellas County has installed red light cameras at several intersections throughout the county. The cameras are typically located at busy intersections with a high incidence of red-light running. Some of the locations with red light cameras include major intersections along US-19, I-275, and other high-traffic roads. The exact locations of the cameras are not publicly disclosed, but drivers can check the Pinellas County website for information on intersections with red light cameras.
It’s worth noting that the locations of the cameras are subject to change, and new cameras may be installed at other intersections in the future. Drivers should always be aware of their surroundings and follow traffic laws, regardless of whether or not they know if a red light camera is present.
How much is the fine for running a red light in Pinellas County?
The fine for running a red light in Pinellas County is $158, which includes a $75 fine, a $30 administrative fee, and a $53 state fee. In addition to the fine, drivers who are caught running a red light may also receive points on their license, which can increase their insurance rates and potentially lead to a license suspension if they accumulate too many points.
It’s worth noting that the fine for running a red light can be higher if the driver is also cited for other offenses, such as speeding or reckless driving. Additionally, drivers who are caught running a red light may be required to attend a driver improvement course or perform community service as part of their sentence.
Can I contest a red light camera citation in Pinellas County?
Yes, drivers who receive a red light camera citation in Pinellas County can contest the citation. To contest a citation, drivers must submit a written request to the Pinellas County Clerk of the Circuit Court within 30 days of receiving the citation. The request must include the citation number, the driver’s name and address, and a statement explaining why the driver believes the citation was issued in error.
Once the request is received, the case will be reviewed by a hearing officer, who will determine whether the citation was issued correctly. If the hearing officer determines that the citation was issued in error, it will be dismissed. However, if the citation is upheld, the driver will be required to pay the fine and any applicable penalties.
Do red light cameras take pictures of the driver’s face?
Red light cameras in Pinellas County are designed to capture images of the vehicle’s license plate, rather than the driver’s face. The cameras use a specialized lens that focuses on the license plate, which allows the images to be clear and readable. The cameras may also capture images of the vehicle’s make and model, as well as any other distinguishing features.
However, it’s worth noting that some red light cameras may capture images of the driver’s face, depending on the angle of the camera and the position of the vehicle. However, these images are not typically used to identify the driver, and are instead used to confirm that the vehicle was being driven by a person.
Are red light cameras effective in reducing accidents?
Yes, red light cameras have been shown to be effective in reducing accidents caused by red-light running. Studies have found that intersections with red light cameras have a lower incidence of accidents, particularly those involving injuries or fatalities. The cameras serve as a deterrent to drivers who might otherwise run red lights, and they also provide a way to enforce traffic laws and hold drivers accountable for their actions.
In addition to reducing accidents, red light cameras can also help to reduce traffic congestion and improve overall road safety. By discouraging drivers from running red lights, the cameras can help to reduce congestion and improve traffic flow, which can make the roads safer for everyone.
Can I get points on my license for running a red light in Pinellas County?
Yes, drivers who are caught running a red light in Pinellas County can receive points on their license. Running a red light is considered a moving violation, and it carries a penalty of 4 points on the driver’s license. If a driver accumulates 12 points within a 12-month period, their license may be suspended for 30 days. If a driver accumulates 18 points within an 18-month period, their license may be suspended for 3 months.
It’s worth noting that points can also increase a driver’s insurance rates, and may lead to other penalties, such as higher premiums or even policy cancellation. Drivers who are caught running a red light should take steps to address the issue, such as attending a driver improvement course or contesting the citation, in order to minimize the impact on their license and insurance rates.