--- description: There is a lot of debate surrounding the use of red light cameras in Washington, D.C.. Many believe that they may cause more harm than good. title: Do Red Light Cameras Cause More Accidents? - Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C. canonical: https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/do-red-light-cameras-cause-more-accidents/ date_modified: 2024-09-04T15:37:40+00:00 practice_area: car-accident --- - Do Red Light Cameras Cause More Accidents? - Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C. # Do Red Light Cameras Cause More Accidents? Last Updated: September 4, 2024 - Reading Time: 4 minutes Trusted Content ![090424_CSCS_APE30](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/wp-content/uploads/elementor/thumbs/090424_CSCS_APE30-r7ld7n5zxjd9ezimssquc85jvnm28x0iit481i4iwo.jpg) Legally Reviewed by Allan Siegel Updated 2 years ago [Home](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/) » [Washington DC Car Accident Lawyer](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/) » Do Red Light Cameras Cause More Accidents? 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"*" indicates required fields Name* First Last Name* Last Email** Phone*Are you a new client?*Are you a new client? *Yes, I'm a potential new client.No, I'm a current existing client.I'm neitherCase TypeCase TypeMotor Vehicle AccidentSlip & FallAssaultMedical MalpracticeAbuseWork InjuryOtherWere You at Fault?Were You At Fault?NoYesUnknownWhere Did The Incident Occur?Where Did The Incident Occur?Washington, D.C.VirginiaMarylandOtherDid The Accident Occur In the Last Two Years?Did The Accident Occur In the Last Two Years?YesNoShare Brief Description of the Incident* Send Watch our attorneys explain how they fight for car accident victims across DC, Maryland, and Virginia. With over $1 billion recovered, our team knows how to build a winning case — from investigation through trial. Video Transcript **Speakers:** Ira Sherman, Joseph Cammarata, Stephen Ollar, Allan Siegel **Ira Sherman (00:02):** I would say that Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata and Siegel has a completely different outlook on cases that other people think are garden variety automobile accidents, because to the person who is involved in that accident, that’s not garden variety, that’s altering their life. **Joseph Cammarata (00:21):** First of all, we don’t advertise. People come to us by word of mouth, either from defense lawyers, from insurance companies, from colleagues at the bar. They know that we have decades of experience in the personal injury field. They know that what we bring to bear is a group of lawyers that work and non-lawyers that work as a team to make sure we understand what the nature and the extent of the injury is. We make sure we understand and can express to a third party just what those injuries are, and we work to obtain the most compensation that we can for an individual. **Stephen Ollar (01:04):** What we do a lot of is discovery, not just discovery of the facts of the case, but discovery about insurance. It may be that the individual was operating the vehicle for an employer, and if they were acting with what we call the course and scope of their employment, then there could be potentially additional coverage that would cover a person for those injuries. **Allan Siegel (01:27):** We’ve been handling car accident cases since Don Chaikin founded this firm over 50 years ago. Since we spend a lot of time and we have a lot of those cases, we have developed a level of experience and knowledge that I think is very unique in our field. There aren’t many law firms who can say that they’ve been doing this type of work for over 50 years. **Ira Sherman (01:52):** I care enough to look to determine who this person is and how it affected them, and that takes up a lot of my conversation with our clients. ![Do Red Light Cameras Cause More Accidents?](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Ca-VhXVdKKleS4px9yDvNqCcfHDxR_agCao-dLYlTMwZ0e2PEfEWDzw-7qzp1-xNFmEeLl3-midggzZNV0GYVXMGRkQK-cXsck4RdI9RNWOkAKEs_k8zhBvpFWnt3YwxtfleBjkxlSu233nx) Over the past decade, over 438 U.S. municipalities, including D.C., have used electronic monitoring programs to reduce the number of car accidents. D.C. red light cameras are a part of an automated photo enforcement program that works by automatically taking a picture of any license plates of vehicles whose drivers violate traffic regulations. Red light camera photographs can only capture the rear of the vehicle and the license plate and cannot capture the person who is driving at the time of the violation. There is a lot of debate surrounding the use of red light cameras. Some people believe that red light cameras effectively reduce accidents, while others think that they actually cause more accidents. ## What is a Red Light Camera Program? Red light cameras are installed at [intersections](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/intersections/) and connected to traffic signals. When the light turns red, the camera is activated and takes a picture of any vehicles entering the intersection’s license plate. The vehicle’s registered owner will receive a red light ticket in the mail after examining the license plate photograph. The goal of these programs is to reduce car accidents. If drivers fear they’ll face a fine, they will be more likely to stop. This can lower the number of car accidents (specifically, right-angle, also known as T-bone, crashes. ## Red Light Programs in Washington, D.C. Established more than twenty years ago, the D.C. Metropolitan Police Department developed the automated photo enforcement program that gives you a red light citation. A police officer from the District may also pull you over and issue an infraction. Since 2020, the District has experienced a rise in severe traffic crashes resulting in deaths and injuries, leading to a proposal to expand D.C.’s automated enforcement program. In 2021, forty people were killed in traffic collisions, the most since 2007. According to a[Washington Post analysis](https://www.washingtonpost.com/transportation/2022/03/24/dc-speed-red-light-cameras/) from early 2022, it was found that 2020 and 2021 saw the lowest number of reported crashes but the highest rate of fatalities in D.C.. Approximately ten people were killed for every 5,000 crashes, double the rate of 2019 even though driving rates were reduced during the pandemic. In response to this increase in accidents, the District Department of Transportation said it is procuring equipment to replace most of the red light cameras that exist in D.C. ![white van speeding through intersection](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/iStock-1385975669-1024x681.jpg) ## Do Red Light Camera Programs Work? Evidence shows that camera programs effectively decrease the number of people running red lights.[In one study in Virginia](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0001457506000273), red light cameras reduced the number of total drivers running red lights by 67 percent. However, while red light programs encourage drivers who would [speed through](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/excessive-speed/) a yellow or red light to stop, their attempt to stop may actually cause an[increase in rear-end accidents.](https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/red-light-cameras-may-not-make-streets-safer/) When a driver slams on their brakes to avoid running a red light, the car behind them may not have enough time to stop, and may crash into the back of their car. [Rear-end collisions](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/rear-end-accident/) are usually less severe than [T-bone collisions](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/t-bone/), but they are still dangerous and can cause injuries. So while red light cameras may effectively reduce T-bone accidents, they may cause an increase in rear-end accidents. If you find yourself in an unfortunate situation and are involved in a car accident, contact Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C. ## What Are the Penalties for Running a Red Light in D.C.? The District of Columbia Municipal Regulations state that a vehicle coming to a red light must stop before [entering the intersection](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/most-dangerous-intersections-in-washington-dc/) and must remain stopped until a green light, or flashing yellow light is shown. Vehicles may also turn right on red after stopping, once it is safe to do so. If these rules are violated, and a red light camera catches the driver, it is considered a traffic infraction, and the driver will have to pay a $150 fine. If an infraction is issued, they will also receive two points on their driver’s record. ## Contact a Car Accident Lawyer in Washington, D.C. ![red light camera citation](https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/TxWV1JviKux3iRat9pEUB769aUQrbR0F1hpaxkFlj6e1HGCQDjWDpb9BX352Ck5w2zliYf345cCkqPkhqPHSJn644wP8pymYcdBbzs8HTgy9EgAHu6p_SnAQb2AgNpiy3wSUSLzgR4hUOqth) If you are looking for the highest level of representation available for your personal injury case, turn to Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C. Our firm has helped clients recover more than $500 million in compensation, and we have more than 100 years of combined experience. All of our partners are recognized by Washington, D.C. Super Lawyers®, and our firm includes three past presidents of the Trial Lawyers Association of Metropolitan Washington, D.C. We work to help our clients obtain fair settlement offers to compensate them for the injuries they’ve suffered, but our [car accident attorneys](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/) are extremely well-equipped to go to trial if needed. Call (202) 659-8600 or[contact us online](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/contact-us/) to get the proven legal representation you deserve. [Watch Our Video Testimonials](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/blog/testimonials-hub/) ![Main CSCS Video - Thumb 1](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/1.png) Get free advice about the compensation you deserve. At Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C., our car accident attorneys fight tirelessly to secure the compensation you deserve, handling every aspect of your case to protect your rights. Trust us to stand by you and advocate aggressively on your behalf. [Free Case Evaluation](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/contact-us/) Visit Us in Person 1232 17th St NW Washington, DC 20036 The car accident lawyers at Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C. serve the entire Washington, D.C. metro area, including [Virginia](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/virginia/) ([Northern Virginia car accident cases](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/northern-virginia/), [Arlington](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/auto-accident-attorneys-in-arlington-va/), [Fairfax County auto accident claims](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/fairfax/), [Woodbridge](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/woodbridge-va/), [Manassas](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/manassas-va/), and [Alexandria](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/alexandria/)) and Maryland ([Bethesda](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/bethesda/), [Hyattsville](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/hyattsville/), [Rockville](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/rockville/), [Lau Top 10 Mistakes Made After an Accident Review these common auto accident mistakes to protect your rights. READ OUR E-BOOK](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/laurel/) Meet Our Team [Learn More About Us](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/about-us/) Ira Sherman Partner Licensed in Washington, D.C., Maryland, and New York With over four decades of courtroom experience, **Ira Sherman** is a powerhouse trial lawyer who has won justice for countless victims of serious injury, discrimination, and medical malpractice. Known for his relentless advocacy, compassion, and proven results, he’s the attorney clients trust when everything is on the line. [Ira Sherman's Bio](https://chaikinandsherman.com/attorney-profiles/ira-sherman/) Joseph Cammarata Partner Licensed in Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia A dual board-certified civil trial attorney, **Joseph Cammarata** is nationally recognized for his fierce advocacy, landmark legal victories, and relentless pursuit of justice for victims of serious injury, wrongful death, sexual assault, and civil rights violations. With wins against powerful opponents—including a historic U.S. Supreme Court case securing equal access to justice—he’s the attorney clients trust when they need skill, strength, and results that matter. [Joe Cammarata's Bio](https://chaikinandsherman.com/attorney-profiles/joseph-cammarata/) Allan M. Siegel​ Partner Licensed in Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia **Allan M. Siegel** is a board-certified trial attorney and partner at Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C., known for securing justice in serious personal injury, brain injury, and wrongful death cases. Recognized as one of Washington’s *Top 100 Super Lawyers®* and a *Best Lawyer®* in America, he combines strategic precision, courtroom skill, and relentless advocacy to win full and fair compensation for his clients. [Allan Siegel's Bio](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/attorney-profiles/allan-m-siegel) Stephen Ollar Partner Licensed in Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia **Stephen Ollar** is an award-winning trial attorney and U.S. Army veteran dedicated to holding negligent individuals and corporations accountable. Recognized as a *Super Lawyers Rising Star* from 2020–2025, he’s known for his tenacity, precision, and unwavering pursuit of justice in personal injury, auto accident, and medical malpractice cases. [Stephen Ollar's Bio](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/attorney-profiles/stephen-ollar/) ## Related Articles [Read More Blog Articles](/blog/) ### [Why Some Insurance Companies Take Longer to Settle After a Car Accident in Washington, DC](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/why-some-car-insurance-companies-take-longer-to-settle/) ### [Washington, DC Tint Laws](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/washington-dc-tint-laws/) ### [Why Insurance Companies Lowball Car Accident Settlements in Washington, DC](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/lowball-car-accident-settlements/) ### [Economic VS Non-Economic Damages In Washington, DC Car Accident Cases](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/economic-vs-non-economic-damages/) ### [How Speeding Affects Liability In a Washington, DC Car Accident Case](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/excessive-speed/how-speeding-affects-liability/) ### [Car Accident Lawyer Arlington, VA](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/arlington/) ### [Should You Talk To the Other Person’s Insurance Company?](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/other-drivers-insurance/) ### [100 Deadliest Days of Summer](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/100-deadliest-days/) ### [How To Deal With Insurance Adjusters](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/car-accidents/what-to-do-after-a-car-accident/insurance-adjusters/) Brain Injury ### [Liability and Umbrella Insurance Protects You and Your Family](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/blog/2021/12/liability-and-umbrella-insurance-protects-you-and-your-family/) As we enter a new year, it is the perfect opportunity to take stock of [Read More »](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/blog/2021/12/liability-and-umbrella-insurance-protects-you-and-your-family/) 12/16/2021 Car Accidents ### [The Courts Have Reopened and the Doors are Wider Than Ever](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/blog/2021/08/the-courts-have-reopened-and-the-doors-are-wider-than-ever/) For months, the coronavirus pandemic practically shut down the courts in the District of Columbia, [Read More »](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/blog/2021/08/the-courts-have-reopened-and-the-doors-are-wider-than-ever/) 08/25/2021 Car Accidents ### [Law Firm Receives Super Lawyers Awards for 11th Consecutive Year](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/blog/2021/08/law-firm-receives-super-lawyers-awards-for-11th-consecutive-year/) The 2021 Washington, DC Super Lawyers® annual list of “Top Lawyers” was recently featured in [Read More »](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/blog/2021/08/law-firm-receives-super-lawyers-awards-for-11th-consecutive-year/) 08/25/2021 Bus Accidents ### [School Bus Safety](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/blog/2021/08/school-bus-safety/) There are more than 471,000 school buses on the roads every day. School bus safety [Read More »](https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/blog/2021/08/school-bus-safety/) 08/18/2021 ```json-ld {"@context":"https://schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"LegalService","@id":"https://chaikinandsherman.com/#firm","name":"Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel Personal Injury Lawyers","url":"https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/","telephone":"+1-202-659-8600","email":"publicrelations@dc-law.net","logo":"https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/new-logoBaskerville@2x.png","image":"https://www.chaikinandsherman.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/cscs-firm-photo.jpg","description":"Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel is a Washington D.C. personal injury law firm with decades of experience representing accident victims throughout DC, Maryland, and Virginia.","foundingDate":"1969","address":{"@type":"PostalAddress","streetAddress":"1232 17th St NW","addressLocality":"Washington","addressRegion":"DC","postalCode":"20036","addressCountry":"US"},"founder":[{"@type":"Person","name":"Joseph Chaikin","address":{"@type":"PostalAddress","streetAddress":"1232 17th St NW","addressLocality":"Washington","addressRegion":"DC","postalCode":"20036","addressCountry":"US"}},{"@type":"Person","name":"Ira Sherman","address":{"@type":"PostalAddress","streetAddress":"1232 17th St NW","addressLocality":"Washington","addressRegion":"DC","postalCode":"20036","addressCountry":"US"}}],"employee":[{"@type":"Attorney","name":"Allan M. 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