(Lawrenceville, Ga., Jan. 19, 2010) - Red light cameras will continue monitoring several Gwinnett intersections and recording moving violations by motorists caught in the intersection after their light has turned red. The Board of Commissioners Tuesday approved a new contract with American Traffic Solutions, Inc. of Scottsdale, Ariz., for $140,533.

The company installed the existing systems at the intersections of Jimmy Carter Boulevard and Singleton Road in 2005, Mall of Georgia Boulevard at Buford Drive/State Route 20 in 2008, and Steve Reynolds Boulevard at Beaver Ruin Road/State Route 378 in 2009.

Gwinnett Police Chief Charles Walters reminded drivers that "a yellow light means prepare to stop." He said red light cameras have proven effective in reducing serious accidents at problem intersections. The three cameras are expected to more than cover their cost of operation by bringing in as much as $300,000 in revenue this year. "Public safety is far more important than the revenue," said Walters. "Protecting lives is our main priority."

Police spokesman David Schiralli said there were 51 fatal traffic accidents in the county last year and estimated that 35 to 40 percent of those deaths could have been avoided if drivers had been wearing seat belts or using properly installed child seats. "Driver distractions like cell phones, GPS units and food often contribute to intersection accidents because people don't react to the yellow light until it's too late," said Schiralli. "Police recommend drivers pull over in a safe location before making telephone calls." Following too closely causes many fender-bender accidents, even at camera-monitored intersections, he added.