Cameras protect our ‘right’ to safe travel

By Jerry A. Vander Sanden

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I hope local efforts to promote traffic safety do not take a back seat to politics as the Iowa Legislature debates a proposal to ban the use of automated traffic enforcement devices.

The empirical evidence clearly shows traffic cameras have dramatically reduced the number of motor vehicle accidents and fatalities. They have encouraged drivers to be more conscientious about obeying the traffic laws. Anyone who regularly drives the S-curve on I-380 through the heart of Cedar Rapids will tell you they have noticed a dramatic difference in driving behavior since they were installed.

I have yet to hear a compelling argument against the traffic cameras. The “big brother” or infringement on privacy rights argument seems spurious given that streets and highways are public places. Has anyone given up shopping now that retail and convenience stores have installed surveillance cameras? What is so invasive about taking a picture of a vehicle's rear bumper?

I also don't buy the “right to confront your accuser” argument. Whether a traffic camera or an officer with radar is involved, it is the mechanical device that is recording the speed of a vehicle. The offender is provided with visual proof of the infraction and there is an appeal process.

Local government should be given some latitude in finding the fairest and most efficient means to enforce traffic laws. Traffic cameras help local law enforcement agencies concentrate their efforts on what some euphemistically refer to as “real crime.” I prefer that police concentrate on investigating crimes of violence. Why deny police the technology that helps them make the best use of their limited resources?

Traffic cameras should not be used to raise revenue for local government and the fine should be proportionate to the offense. However, the traffic camera $75 speeding citation is a relative bargain compared to the regular state traffic ticket. The total cost for a state-issued citation for speeding 11 to 15 mph over the limit is $168 ($80 fine, $28 surcharge and $60 court costs). A stop sign or signal citation would total $195, and both would go on your driving record. Which is more onerous?

Some who gripe about the traffic cameras are really complaining because they can no longer exercise what they consider to be their “right” to disregard traffic laws with impunity. What is truly at stake is the motoring public's “right” to expect that others drive safely and obey the law.

Jerry A. Vander Sanden is Linn County Attorney. Comments: jerry.vandersanden@linn

county.org