Mayor Emmanuel Pushing Legislation for Speed Cameras Near Chicago Schools and Parks

The Chicago Tribune has been reporting recently on a proposal by Mayor Emmanuel to equip many traffic control devices throughout the City with speed detection capabilities inside the red-light cameras that can be used to issue traffic citations to speeders.  There are currently two measures being contemplated in Springfield, one proposed in the Senate by John Cullerton, D-Chicago, and another in the House by Speaker Michael Madigan, D-Chicago.  Negotiations are being made on the scope of the coverage, which according to the Tribune report would be approximately 47% of the City.

The legislation is being pitched as a means to use technology to provide better protection for children near schools and parks.  The cynical view is that it’s primary purpose is to increase revenue for the City.  It will do both, so it seems like a no-brainer and I expect that we will see these new speed detecting red-light cameras very soon.  Aside from the costs associated with the installation, there really is no downside.  Except, of course, for the speeders hit with a $100 fine in the mail.  But who is going to lobby for them?

I think that the proposal is good for Chicago because it will increase safety by modifying the behavior of drivers.  If it also happens to raise money for the City, then all the better.  Good job Mr. Mayor.

By John R. Gorey, Gorey Law Group P.C.

If you or someone you know has been injured as result of a car accident, please contact the Gorey Law Group at (312) 445-5859 or e-mail John Gorey at [email protected] for a free consultation.