Originally Posted by nathank
if as i assume above, the sensor is far enough ahead that the light is red well before the speeder gets there, then how could that "cause accidents"? i think the effect would be exactly the opposite as speeders would either learn not to speed or have to stop at every intersection. sounds like a pretty clear way to REDUCE accidents.
My paper shows the light to actually be in Pleasanton, which is east of Oakland. The system uses radar to gauge speed, and is so far out from the light that it has a sign showing the motorist's speed, and gives them plenty of time to slow down. If a car keeps speeding more than 5 mph above the limit, the light will change to red with enough time for a car to stop. The article says the crossing street's light remains red for 10 seconds after the speeding car's light changes to red, to allow for people speeding up and running the light. Drivers are upset about the light, but the residents in the area are happy about it. The light replaced a stop sign at a busy intersection. Children have almost been hit trying to cross legally to get to a school bus stop. I guess if the drivers would pay attention and drive properly, they wouldn't have to worry about these lights being installed.