In an effort to enhance safety at some of Melrose Park’s most dangerous intersections, the Village Board approved the installation of an automated traffic enforcement system, also known as Red Light Cameras, at the intersections of 1st & North (East bound) and 5th & North (East and West bound).

According to recent studies conducted by the U.S. Dept. of Transportation, Red Light Camera Programs can decrease red light violations up to 60%. Traffic accidents caused by red light runners are among the most serious, often resulting in severe injuries and fatalities. Studies have shown that approximately 1,000 people die and 176,000 people are injured annually in the United States because of drivers running red lights. There are Two Types of Red Light Violations: (1) Right turn on Red Without coming to a complete stop and (2) Entering an intersection after the traffic signal has turned red.

A Common misconception is that the cameras will be photographing everyone as they drive thru the community. In fact, Sensors placed in the pavement activate the camera only when a vehicle enters the intersection during the red light cycle. A total of 3 photographs will be taken plus 8-10 seconds of digital video. The images include: the car entering the red light intersection, the car passing thru the intersection and finally, a close-up of the license plate. All 3 images, plus a link to view the video footage on-line, will be provided to the vehicle’s registered owner who is mailed the violation. According to Illinois Law, it is illegal to photograph the faces of either drivers or passengers.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Is the citation valid if it was not issued by a uniformed police officer?
   Yes. These violations are reviewed and authorized by sworn officers of the Melrose Park Police Department. Each reviewing Officer has been specifically trained in the operation and review process of the Red Light Photo Enforcement Program. These tickets are treated as a civil violation (just like a parking ticket) and will not impact the registered owner’s driving record or insurance rates.
2. What do I do if I receive a Citation?
   If you receive a citation in the mail you should follow the instructions on the back. Detailed information is provided on how to pay or contest the violation. Should the individual decide to contest the violation, he/she may do so through the Village’s adjudication program.
3. Under Illinois State Law, HB 4835, the registered owner of the vehicle is liable for any automated traffic law violations that occur to the vehicle, regardless of who is operating it.

Additional information regarding the Red Light Camera Program will be posted to the Village of Melrose Park’s website www.melrosepark.org. For immediate questions, please contact the Village’s Police Department at 708-344-8409.