PHOTOSafe cameras rolling in NN

NEWPORT NEWS, Va. (WAVY) - Newport News' first PHOTOSafe camera is now up and running at one of the city's busiest intersections: West Mercury Boulevard and Jefferson Avenue.

If you're not familiar with the PHOTOSafe program, it's a program designed to catch red light runners on camera. City leaders hope the cameras will help save lives.

Drivers told WAVY.com West Mercury Boulevard and Jefferson Ave. is an area they consider dangerous because impatient and reckless drivers disobey the traffic lights.

Driver Justin Garrett said, "As soon as they see it turn red, they check around and just punch it. That's not cool because if another light turns green and I'm coming through or a family member, that could potentially hurt them or kill them."

That's why the Newport News Police Department and the city are installing the cameras. And, If you commit the crime, prepare to pay the penalty.

"The 50 dollar penalty is a straight $50, like a parking ticket...There's no points related. It doesn't go to DMV at all. There's no possibility of your insurance going up because of this penalty," said MPO Jeff Westrick with the Newport News Police Department.

There are plans to expand the PHOTOSafe program to Jefferson and Oyster Point and Jefferson and Denbigh Boulevard.

Drivers say they understand police can't be everywhere and say the cameras are the next best thing.

"If you drive the speed limit, you're good, but don't run the red light and you won't get caught," said driver, Alma Jones.

Violaters will receive warning notices for 30 days -- after that, you'll receive a bill for $50.

Virginia Beach activated the first PHOTOSafe camera in March 2009, making it the first city in Hampton Roads to install the cameras.

Police say 12 percent of all traffic tickets in the city were for red light violators. There are now 13 cameras at the busiest intersections in the resort city.