The objective of this study was to determine the nature and extent of red light running behaviour at a sample of camera and comparable non-camera sites around Melbourne. Signal compliance was measured as a function of speed zone, road cross section, lane type, time of day and day of week. Three intersections were investigated. For each intersection, measurements of red light running behaviour were obtained by video-taping traffic at three selected approaches, namely the camera approach, the opposite approach (i.e., subject to the red light camera ahead sign but with no camera) and also a matched approach with no signs or camera. Red light running was a relatively rare occurrence (0.32 percent). Further, 93 percent of the encroachments occurred during the all-red period of the signal cycle when the probability of conflicting traffic is lowest. Red light running rates were significantly higher for right-turn movements compared to through movements. Red light running rates were also higher for right-turn movements in 60 km/h speed zones, on undivided roads than in 80 km/h speed zones on divided roads. Notably, there were no differences in the observed rates of red light running between camera and non-camera approaches. Results are discussed in terms of their implications for further research and for the operation of the Red Light Camera Program in Victoria. (A)
Abstract