When a proposed procedural change is highly opposed by the general public, it is important for Illinois state leaders to be very mindful when reviewing it. Recently, a bill was proposed that would allow traffic lights to issue citations for traffic violations.

Specifically, the bill would allow traffic signals to issue tickets to drivers who are recorded speeding on the camera. The proposed area for these cameras was restricted to school and park slow zones initially, but that area has increased. Now the areas in which cameras would be placed could cover over half of the city of Chicago.

There have been an overwhelming number of responses regarding the cameras. A clear majority of people - 91 percent - say that they are opposed to the bill. The fact that residents are obviously and strongly opposed to the installation of the cameras may be an important factor to consider.

In cities around the country, cameras have also been installed to catch drivers who run red lights and then issue tickets. Many of these cameras have been removed or uninstalled after it was made clear that there were too many problems with allowing a camera to record and enforce laws.

It is now up to Governor Pat Quinn to decide whether to sign the bill or veto it. With such a strong adverse reaction to the bill, it would likely prove to be a very unpopular bill.

In so many cases when a driver is speeding, he or she may not have seen speed limit signs or may have other legal arguments against being issued a speeding ticket. In these cases, it would be more appropriate for a motorist to have the opportunity to speak with a police officer instead of having a ticket mailed out. It may not be fitting for every single driver to receive a citation.

No matter how a driver is cited for speeding or other traffic violations, there may be ways to defend against the charges. There may always be methods to decreasing the financial penalties and damage to a driving record with legal assistance.

Source: Chicagoist, "Governor's Office Report Shows Strong Public Opposition To Speeding Camera Law," Jan. 30, 2012