The modern convenience of traveling from city to city in a matter of hours has drastically changed how we live our lives. However, this convenience has not come without a cost.
Traffic cameras are devices that capture images of vehicles violating traffic laws and rules of the road through photo or video recording. These cameras provide additional information unavailable from officers monitoring traffic in person. Modern technology has also created a system in which information regarding the violation can be transmitted to the office and enforcement agency monitoring the traffic camera, allowing them to respond promptly. Here we will discuss traffic cameras and the types of violations captured in Tampa, Florida.
Technology Used in Traffic Cameras
Traffic cameras use CCTV (Closed Circuit Television) for recording and transmitting images to an off-site location. They are designed with a lens that can zoom automatically. The zoom is controlled remotely and allows the user to focus on a specific area without being present at the location. A sophisticated system will enable you to zoom in, zoom out, pan left or right and rotate the view a full 180 degrees. This allows for continuous and smooth rotation without having to be manually adjusted.
The cameras are connected to a satellite uplink, allowing the information to be transmitted anywhere in the world. The camera is powered by high-capacity batteries that can last very long without needing to be replaced. They are equipped with GPS tracking devices and cellular telecommunication devices, allowing them to transmit information about their location and position at all times.
Types of Traffic Violations that Traffic Cameras Capture
Several traffic violations can be captured and recorded using these devices. Some of the most common violations monitored include running a red light, driving too fast for the area, speeding, running a stop sign, or failing to yield right of way. The most common reasons for these violations are reckless driving and negligence.
New cameras in Tampa are equipped with sound meters to measure noise and sound frequency. These devices are programmed to measure decibels, and they can detect levels far above the normal limits of humans. This is done by sensing vibrations in the air when certain sounds are being generated. The new technology was designed to locate and target vehicles in violation of excessive noise levels.
How Traffic Cameras Affect Traffic Safety
The use of traffic cameras has significantly affected the number of accidents. Many drivers are put off by the presence of these devices and tend to drive more carefully to avoid detection. Vehicles that are very loud, dangerous, or suspected of being involved in illegal activity are often targeted for surveillance.
Traffic cameras reconstruct accident scenes and determine liability for damages or injuries. They have also become helpful in documenting evidence of outstanding warrants or identifying criminals on the run. They can help identify the whereabouts of vehicles reported as stolen and spotted on the streets illegally.
Traffic cameras are handy for improving road safety and reducing general accident rates. The new technology that is being developed is sure to have a positive effect on the roadways around us. Keep your eye open when traveling in Tampa. If you see one of these devices, it’s a good bet that more are out there.
