Whether cameras installed at red lights are working is a real matter of debate. While some areas of Florida are touting its success, Houston and Los Angeles have called it "lights out" for this controversial addition.

There's always been controversy for drivers. Many think it's invasive and are resentful of the Big Brother effect. Others, especially those who complain about the masses of red light runners, think it's a good thing.

Actually, it's tough to tell. Some cities cite a decrease in intersection accidents while the majority, it seems, can't provide any useful statistics. Even worse, it appears that tickets issued under camera surveillance are less likely to be paid. While an office issuing a ticket on the spot appears to be more of a menace, the red light camera is just a gnat that can be ignored.

One city official commented on the fact that red light cameras actually were causing more accidents. How? As drivers were slamming to a halt as lights turned red, they were getting rear-ended by cars behind not stopping. Think about that one and if you have trouble with the concept, leave a message below. I'll help you out.

Further debate has arisen about the companies handling installation contracts. Some evidence exists that they, too, are receiving a cut from paid tickets, even after pocketing payments for the product.

For those of you who feel the urge to sneak through a red light now and then, check out sprays and clear plastic covers for license plates. Supposedly, they blank out numbers when red light cameras take a photo. That's probably no less dodgy than radar detectors at the height of their popularity, right?

Photo public domain: courtesy Derek Jensen