Red light cameras are a total scam

Something must be done soon to stop the incredible ripoff that our local communities are forcing on drivers. The idea of cameras that can catch people who blow off red lights is one thing. And probably a good thing.

But if the idea is safety and the intent is to prevent accidents, there is no evidence that it is doing it. Rather, it is providing a windfall of revenue by ticketing drivers making right turns on red lights. A recent article in the Chicago Tribune uncovered 10,000 tickets being issued to drivers between November and January! Obviously, there is something drastically wrong. And it's happening all over.

I have been driving for quite a while and I have a good driving record. No tickets, no accidents. I recently made a right turn from Higgins Road onto Arlington Heights Road. I did it as I always do - I pulled up to the intersection, stopped, looked to my left to see if it was safe to turn, turned and went on my way. A few days later, I received a ticket for $100. Enraged at this, I decided to ask for a hearing. A few days later, I received a court date with the information that if I went to court and lost, the fine would be $140.00. After speaking to others who have been in the same predicament, I decided to pay the $100. Everyone told me that the courts run roughshod over anyone who protests this outrage.

Ron Edhlund

Rolling Meadows