The Amarillo traffic commissioners have scheduled various meetings to discuss the topic of adding more red light cameras to intersections. Although a final decision has yet to be made, many commissioners push for this addition, despite the anxiety the lights cause Amarillo citizens. Increasing the use of red light cameras around town will only cause more chaos on city streets.

                Firstly, for anyone who has driven anywhere close to these monitored intersections, there is an obvious feeling of panic while approaching these areas. For example, while cruising down the already congested Coulter Street, one thought is weighing on everyone’s mind. Many drivers go out of their way to completely avoid the intersections; however, many just cross their fingers and go for it. As the light turns yellow, some floor the gas hoping to make it through in time. Others slam on the breaks, risking getting rear ended. Those four seconds as the light is yellow makes the difference between having to pay a ridiculously priced ticket or not. Drivers have enough stress paying attention to what is around them without having to worry about red light cameras.

                These cameras run all day, every day despite any weather conditions. When roads are icy or wet, slamming on the breaks to avoid running a light is dangerous. Also, it is unfair to punish drivers for doing what they need to do to stay safe on slick roads.

                Instead of paying attention to a red light camera, drivers should be focusing on themselves and others around them. During the day many different traffic issued arise whether it be 5 o’clock rush hour, car wrecks, or just heavy traffic. Drivers have to make many different choices while on the road, some that can only be justified by a real live police officer and not just an automated camera.

                All in all, red light cameras aren’t a fair way to ticket drivers. With so many distractions on the road, it is important that drivers devote all their attention to what is going on around them so that everyone can stay safe. Red light cameras cause too much anxiety and distraction for drivers, therefore traffic commissioners should not add more to the city of Amarillo.