NEARBY: Several Thousand Warnings Issued From New Red-Light Cameras

May 6, 2024

A red light sign and enforcement camera. Credit: Bensalem police

Bensalem Township has rolled out Automated Red-Light Enforcement (ARLE) systems at two major intersections and issued several thousand warnings over the past month.

Since it was turned on initiation on April 1, the ARLE program has issued more than 5,200 warnings to drivers at the intersections of Street Road at Knights Road and Route 1 at Old Lincoln Highway in Bensalem Township.

The decision to implement ARLE systems in the township was backed by a review of five years’ worth of crash data. Time magazine designated the intersection of Knights Road and Street Road as “the most dangerous intersection in America,” according to an analysis based on National Highway Traffic Safety Administration data.

During the first 30 days of enforcement, local police observed numerous instances of drivers speeding to beat the red light or undertaking illegal left turns. With the 60-day grace period concluding on May 31, the township warns that starting June 1, offenders will be fined $100.

The ARLE system identifies violations when a vehicle proceeds through an intersection after the signal has turned red, with the vehicle initially positioned behind the white stop line.

Police said officers will review each potential infraction to ensure its validity before issuing notices.

Officials stated that revenue from the fines will cover the costs of the enforcement system’s equipment and personnel, not serve as profit for the township.

Motorists ticketed by the ARLE can review the evidence online and have the option to contest the citation through an in-person hearing at the Bensalem Township Municipal Building.

Township officials have noted that the penalties are civil and will not impact drivers’ records, insurance rates, or CDL statuses.

The use of ARLE is a growing trend in Pennsylvania. Warrington Township in Central Bucks County, Philadelphia, and Abington Township in Montgomery County, have also adopted ARLE systems.