A new pilot program of red light cameras could go live in Utah, but with a twist. If lawmakers stick to their word, these cameras won't issue tickets at all. They'll simply collect data to help the government figure out how to improve safety at high-risk intersections.
The proposal, reintroduced by Rep. Jake Fitisemanu (D–West Valley), aims to create a pilot program that would begin no later than January 1, 2027, and wrap up by April 30, 2028, with a built-in sunset clause that automatically repeals it in 2029. This approach is already quite different from most traffic cam projects, as it explicitly prohibits issuing citations, fines, or license points.
The effort is entirely framed as a data collection and public education initiative, aiming to help the state and public understand how often drivers run red lights and how often those actions have consequences. According to Deseret, the state recorded roughly 2,375 red-light-running crashes per year between 2020 and 2024, resulting in 64 fatalities and over 500 serious injuries. The pilot program would roll out in two phases: a 60-day passive data collection phase, followed by a public education phase lasting at least 120 days.
During the second phase, drivers caught running a red light would receive a mailed warning, not a ticket, along with a photo of their license plate. No civil or criminal penalties could be issued, and the data collected could not be used in court proceedings or investigations, except under a warrant for unrelated cases. The bill still needs to make it through committee before lawmakers can vote on whether the pilot program moves any closer to becoming reality.
This approach is a step in the right direction towards improving safety at high-risk intersections, but it's essential to ensure that the data collected is used effectively to inform policy decisions. By focusing on public education and awareness, Utah can help drivers understand the risks of running red lights and take necessary precautions.
