Do you know that feeling when you approach an intersection, the traffic signal is green but you also see the orange hand flashing on the walk light? Perhaps the signal has just turned amber and you have a split second to decide: Do you hit the brakes, or continue through the intersection? Driving in the winter can cause additional stress and caution during these driving moments. Red light cameras can cause stress and uncertainty on how to navigate: many times left with only a second or two to decide – to slow or not to slow. No one wants to trigger a red light camera and receive a $230 ticket in the mail. Today we’ll highlight what red light cameras are, how they work and what you need to know to drive with confidence through some of Saskatoons high collision zones (red light intersections.)
All Saskatoon intersections require a complete stop before making a right hand turn. A complete stop will ensure that you’re always visible, that the driver has a clear picture of oncoming traffic and that there are no pedestrians in the crosswalk. This helps reduce the risk for yourself, pedestrian traffic and other drivers. Certain Saskatoon intersections have been identified as ‘high collision zones’ and, for this reason, the City has installed extra precautions, including red light cameras. Though these cameras increase safety, they may also impose stress for drivers. Here’s what you need to know when approaching Red Light Camera intersections in Saskatoon.
Where are they?
Red Light Cameras are located at four main intersections in Saskatoon:
⦁ Preston Avenue and 8th Street
⦁ Warman Road and 51st Street
⦁ Avenue C and Circle Drive
⦁ 33rd Street and Idylwyld Drive
How do they work?
Red light cameras detect motion just prior to the crosswalk, after the signal has turned red. Two images are captured from the rear of the vehicle in question. The first image shows the vehicle at the white stop line and the second image captures the vehicle in the middle of the intersection, with the light being red. Cameras at these intersections also record a 12-second digital video of the violation, six seconds prior to and six seconds after running the red light. Once viewed by the City of Saskatoon, a ticket is then administered and delivered by mail.