Utah is considering a unique approach to traffic safety: a pilot program using red-light cameras that won’t issue fines or tickets. Instead, the system will focus solely on data collection and public awareness, a departure from the revenue-generating model common in many other municipalities. The initiative, proposed through House Bill 275, aims to study red-light running patterns without penalizing drivers directly.
The Core Concept: Data-Driven Safety
The bill, reintroduced by Rep. Jake Fitisemanu (D–West Valley), envisions a program operating between January 1, 2027, and April 30, 2028, with automatic repeal scheduled for 2029. Unlike typical traffic camera systems designed to generate revenue, Utah’s proposal explicitly forbids citations, fines, or license point assessments. The goal is to gather data on how often drivers violate traffic signals and the resulting consequences, using the findings to improve intersection safety.
The Problem: Severe Crash Patterns
The initiative comes amid alarming statistics. Between 2020 and 2024, Utah recorded approximately 2,375 red-light-running crashes annually, resulting in 64 deaths and over 500 serious injuries. Notably, 95% of these crashes were angle collisions – commonly known as T-bone accidents – which are among the most dangerous types of vehicular impacts. This underscores the severe consequences of red-light violations and justifies the need for improved safety measures.
Two-Phase Implementation
The proposed program will unfold in two stages. The first, lasting at least 60 days, will involve passive data collection at selected intersections to establish baseline violation and crash rates. The second phase, lasting at least 120 days, will focus on public education. Drivers caught running red lights will receive a mailed warning with a photo of their license plate, but no penalties will be imposed.
The collected data will be strictly for safety analysis and cannot be used in court proceedings or investigations unless a warrant is obtained for unrelated cases. This ensures the program remains focused on prevention, not prosecution.
Why This Matters
Utah’s approach is notable because it acknowledges the limitations of punitive traffic enforcement. While fines can deter some drivers, they can also create financial burdens and resentment. By shifting the focus to data-driven safety improvements, Utah may find a more sustainable and effective way to reduce red-light running incidents. The pilot program’s success could influence other states to adopt similar strategies, prioritizing public education over revenue generation.
The bill still requires committee approval before reaching a full legislative vote. If passed, it will represent a significant departure from the typical traffic camera model, signaling a renewed emphasis on safety over punishment.
