The automated enforcement system uses high-speed digital cameras and advanced violation detectors that are connected to and controlled by a computer. The computer is connected directly to the traffic signal’s control box.
The camera is activated and enforcement begins when the signal light turns red. Once the signal light turns green, the system automatically turns off and enforcement ends. The system is designed so that it can only capture an image during the red light phase. It cannot take an image during a yellow or green light phase. In other words, the camera system cannot take a picture unless and until the light facing the driver is red. The system continuously monitors the traffic signal and allows for 24-hour enforcement.
When the system detects that a violation has occurred, three images are captured:
- A wide-angle, color digital image shows the vehicle behind the white stop bar and the illuminated red light
- A high-resolution image, taken as the vehicle enters the intersections, shows the type of vehicle and license plate information
- A wide-angle, color digital image shows the violator crossing the intersection with the red light illuminated
The violation images are sent to Gwinnett County, where trained officers will obtain the name, address, and other identifying information of the registered owner from the Georgia Department of Motor Vehicles. After review of the images, a citation is mailed to the registered owner of the vehicle.
