Viewer - Snap Judgment Chat with Chris Earl

Snap Judgment Chat with Chris Earl

Thursday November 11, 2010

11:23

Chris Earl:

Chris Earl here - all week, we're been airing our series, "Snap Judgment" on KCRG-TV 9 News at 10. Lots of phone calls, lots of emails have followed -- yes, it is the subject that keeps giving... Come on in and talk.

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:23 Chris Earl

11:25

[Comment From floydfloyd: ]

2 quick points 1. MOTORCYLES AREN'T CITED BY THE PHOTO ENFORCEMENT BECAUSE THEY HAVE ONLY ONE LICENSE PLATE AND IT'S IN THE BACK OF THE BIKE. SINCE THE CAMERAS ARE SET TO RECORD ONLY FRONT VIEWS BIKES ARE NEVER MONITORED. 2. CITATIONS ARE NOT MADE A PART OF YOUR DRIVING RECORD AND ARE NOT REPORTED TO INS COMPANIES. THEREFORE A HABITUAL VIOLATOR WILL NOT LOSE THEIR LICENSE AND REMAIN A THREAT ON THE ROAD. DRIVERS MAY LEARN TO SLOW DOWN FOR THE PHOTO CAMERAS WHICH LOCATIONS ARE WELL PUBLICIZED BUT THEY'LL SPEED UP AFTER PASSING THEM, THUS DEFEATING THE PURPOSE OF THE CAMERAS.

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:25 floyd

11:26

Chris Earl:

Hi Floyd -- here is what I've seen on the citations we have seen at the station. Two photos, both from the back instead and not the front. I haven't seen any of the tickets from motorcycles, however.

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:26 Chris Earl

11:27

[Comment From floydfloyd: ]

ok, i thought they were only frontal

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:27 floyd

11:27

Chris Earl:

(at least what I've seen) - you get a ticket with two images on it - a "close up" of the license plate and a wider shot of the vehicle going through the checkpoint - all from the back.

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:27 Chris Earl

11:29

[Comment From floydfloyd: ]

so that's why they say they ticket the car and not the driver,,,they can't see the driver

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:29 floyd

11:29

Chris Earl:

Exactly. Treated the same as a "parking ticket". Just a $75 ticket... for most people.

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:29 Chris Earl

11:30

Chris Earl:

Well, if you see the cameras, notice the direction they are pointing -- from the back of the intersection, looking ahead.

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:30 Chris Earl

11:31

[Comment From floydfloyd: ]

weird, i could swear those cameras are frontal

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:31 floyd

11:31

[Comment From floydfloyd: ]

i believe people should be fined if they're speeding...but the citationk should also go on their record...otherwise whats the purpose

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:31 floyd

11:31

[Comment From floydfloyd: ]

i'm talking 380 cameras

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:31 floyd

11:31

Chris Earl:

Yes, the 380 cameras point 'forward' - on the back of the highway/exit signs.

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:31 Chris Earl

11:33

[Comment From floydfloyd: ]

so that means they're frontal

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:33 floyd

11:33

Chris Earl:

Some of the other larger questions I've received all week -- and I'll try and get to those throughout the hour.

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:33 Chris Earl

11:34

Chris Earl:

Where does the revenue go? Cedar Rapids Police Department general fund.

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:34 Chris Earl

11:35

[Comment From jessejesse: ]

as time goes by and everybody either avoids them or slows down then the camera company and the city are no longer making money what happens to the cameras?

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:35 jesse

11:36

[Comment From floydfloyd: ]

ok, bye

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:36 floyd

11:36

Chris Earl:

We also mentioned this on Sunday night on KCRG-TV9, within the story. Many people ask what the tolerance is. The police department won't say it but - in all the data we've gone through (40,000+ citations), no tickets for driving less than 67 on I-380. That's a 12-MPH tolerance.

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:36 Chris Earl

11:36

[Comment From BrentBrent: ]

By now most if not all local residents know where each camera is and watches out for them, the only people getting hurt now are travelers and people from out of town/state. I think that would make some people/company's start diverting routes and such..

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:36 Brent

11:37

Chris Earl:

Jesse - thanks for checking in and being a part of this. What will happen to the cameras? Hmmm..hard to say. The police chief says they will keep it at 10 cameras and not add any further cameras.

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:37 Chris Earl

11:38

Chris Earl:

Brent - thanks for coming over here. I do know - through media and police getting the word out - people here in Eastern Iowa, I think, know they are in place. Especially now, a few months into the cams going live, the speed does seem to "clump" quite a bit on 380 now.

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:38 Chris Earl

11:39

[Comment From jessejesse: ]

but who pays for maintance, repair and replacement?

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:39 jesse

11:39

Chris Earl:

Jesse - of the cameras? The city says GATSO, the camera company, handles all of those costs.

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:39 Chris Earl

11:40

[Comment From jessejesse: ]

but if they are not making money what's their incentive?

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:40 jesse

11:40

[Comment From nicknick: ]

380 is 55 now since everyone is scared.

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:40 nick

11:41

Chris Earl:

GATSO does get, $30 from every ticket. So for a $75 ticket (about 84-85% of the tickets issued), it is a 45/30 city/company split.

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:41 Chris Earl

11:41

[Comment From SandySandy: ]

Hi, Chris,

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:41 Sandy

11:41

Chris Earl:

Hi Sandy!

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:41 Chris Earl

11:41

[Comment From SandySandy: ]

I'm thinking that we need signage that notifies the drivers that there are cameras

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:41 Sandy

11:42

Chris Earl:

Sandy, the cameras do say 'PHOTO ENFORCED', on I-380. Not sure how much signage is at the cameras on city streets (1st Avenue, 2nd Avenue, etc). The 380 ones I'm...very familiar with.

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:42 Chris Earl

11:42

[Comment From BethBeth: ]

Chris, thanks for hosting this chat and for the great pieces running this week. I was just curious, in watching the interviews of this week, it didn't seem to me that any violators took ownership for their driving. It seemed like they were angry for getting caught. Was there anyone that you interviewed sorry that they sped because they could have caused injury if their speed had cause a wreck, or were they only sorry for getting caught?

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:42 Beth

11:43

[Comment From BobBob: ]

I'm sure you covered this, but I didn't see so I'll venture to ask now. How is this not violative of due process?

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:43 Bob

11:43

[Comment From SandySandy: ]

I can understand the out of state person driving through, and how miffed they'd be

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:43 Sandy

11:44

Chris Earl:

Hi Beth - I appreciate you coming on here with the kind words. To answer the 'remorse' question... I would say, no. Most people are just upset on getting caught. When we were in the police conference room for "Appeals Night" -- the people appealing were remorseful, although that may have been just from the need to try and contest the ticket.

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:44 Chris Earl

11:44

[Comment From guestguest: ]

Winter is coming people will slid through intersections. Also I heard rumors of people not clearing the snow off their plates so they dont get charged. I also think there should be a timeline, once it happens the ticket should be given to them within 5 business days

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:44 guest

11:45

Chris Earl:

Hi Bob - thanks for writing in. The "due process" part is very sticky. One local attorney has a major problem with it in that: a) the tickets arrive 2-3 weeks after the incident and b) he says the city makes it difficult to contest it.

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:45 Chris Earl

11:46

Chris Earl:

Hi Sandy - just last month, a driver from Hawaii got a ticket -- making it now all 50 states that are "represented" in the CR traffic cameras. :)

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:46 Chris Earl

11:46

[Comment From JeanJean: ]

I don't see how out of state people can be upset. You have to be going at least 12 mph over the speed limit. You are really breaking law. I can not believe how fast some people are going. One person was going 22 mph over on those curves by the hospital!

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:46 Jean

11:48

Chris Earl:

To the kind guest: I will say this on the 'delay' between ticket and arriving in the mailbox. On "Appeals Night" at the CRPD, if a person got a citation on, say, July 18, July 24 and July 27 -- but the July 18 ticket arrived on August 5 -- the person responsible for dismissing citations was open to throwing out the second or third tickets -- as the driver may not have been aware about the July 18 violation.

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:48 Chris Earl

11:48

[Comment From karinkarin: ]

I think the cameras are a good thing to a point. People are only going to slow down near the camera locations. I drive Edgewood rd Near 42nd st every day to and from work and see people all the time slowing down to 20ish MPH and slamming on their brakes right at the intersection thinking it will turn red.

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:48 karin

11:48

[Comment From MelissaMelissa: ]

Man you guys really think that the tickets are not a good thing well it will teach everyone to not speed or drive fast becasue even in the winter time people should not be driving fast anyway I agree with all the traffic light camera

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:48 Melissa

11:49

Chris Earl:

Hi Karin - I live right by 42nd & Edgewood - and see the intersection 6-10 times a day. It has slowed there quite a bit -- but to 20ish? I will say this...when I'm on 380, I usually drive 50-55 on 380 southbound at H Avenue, even though I know I could probably go up to 66 w/o getting caught.

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:49 Chris Earl

11:49

[Comment From JessiJessi: ]

I will admit the camera's have changed my speed habits but only near the cam sites. Once I am past them I speed up just like the majority of the people do. I do go much slower than I would have in the past not exceeding 60MPH through the curves.

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:49 Jessi

11:50

Chris Earl:

Hi Jessi - I actually think the PD wants this to be a "long term mentality" way of thinking. For now, keep it under 65 and you should be in the clear. Of course, the PD could change the tolerance at any time -- but I do not get the sense they will anytime soon.

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:50 Chris Earl

11:50

[Comment From Lady BLady B: ]

Hi, everyone. I use to hate driving in Cedar Rapids when I lived there. I no longer do. I felt like each time I drove, I was about to die! It was worse than a NASCAR race! It was dangerous all the weaving in and out of traffic, good drivers had no choice to speed when others were, and especially tailgating. Cedar Rapids was worse than Chicago, St. Louis, Little Rock and other places I've driven! Since the cameras have been installed... I'm beyond impressed with how drivinng in Cedar Rapids has become less of a death race and more of an enjoyable drive.

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:50 Lady B

11:52

Chris Earl:

Hello Lady B - I will play a touch of advocate here on this. Last night, I was coming back from Coralville at about 5 pm, driving north on I-380 through Cedar Rapids. It was packed, with everyone driving 50-60 through the S. My concern would be for merging traffic with all of the exits -- but, the police have this to say as well: no deadly crashes on 380 in the S-Curve in 2010...

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:52 Chris Earl

11:52

[Comment From MattMatt: ]

Is it possible at some point vehicles will be ticketed for going too slow? There have been many occassions on my way to work that I have not made it up to 45mph on I-380 in any of the 3 lanes and cars are so close together that you can't see the plate of the car behind you.

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:52 Matt

11:52

[Comment From guestguest: ]

how many speeding tickets are the cops still writing? I'm hoping not so many that way they can handle other issues in CR

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:52 guest

11:52

[Comment From PaulPaul: ]

I'm curious about individuals who may be driving a rental car. Who receives the citation, the rental company or the driver?

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:52 Paul

11:52

[Comment From MelissaMelissa: ]

So were else are they going to be putting up the camera lights I think they need them in dubuque so that way people will slow down

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:52 Melissa

11:53

Chris Earl:

Matt - I think it's "possible" but I didn't see any tickets for driving slow. However, I will confess I didn't seek that out. Maybe later today when I go through them again. Thanks! - chris

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:53 Chris Earl

11:53

Chris Earl:

Guest - Not sure how many are being "written" now. I actually saw a CRPD squad with a person pulled over today, NE side of town. An unusual event these days.

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:53 Chris Earl

11:54

Chris Earl:

Rental Company gets the official ticket. Then the company has to track down the driver that day. About a dozen years ago, I got a parking ticket in a rental car. Trust me -- the company will find you.

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:54 Chris Earl

11:54

[Comment From GuestGuest: ]

I agree with you Lady B. I'm really sick and tired of hearing how Cedar Rapids will turn away people and those that moan and groan about the camera's. It's really simple. Go the speed limit - obey the law and you won't have to worry about it. I'd love to see camera's installed all the way to I-80.

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:54 Guest

11:55

Chris Earl:

Melissa - where else for the cameras? In CR, no new cameras are coming -- although I (personally) wouldn't be surprised if they were moved around. Especially on 2nd Avenue and 10th with the plans for a new medical plaza...

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:55 Chris Earl

11:55

[Comment From Lady BLady B: ]

Bumper to bumper traffic is managable compared to good drivers who drive the speed limit have someone who is speeding riding on their bumper to urge them to go faster.

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:55 Lady B

11:56

Chris Earl:

(Now looking back to see if I missed any questions earlier...sorry if I did)...

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:56 Chris Earl

11:56

[Comment From SNaCKSNaCK: ]

8=======D

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:56 SNaCK

11:56

[Comment From guestguest: ]

Chris thank you for your time!

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:56 guest

11:57

Chris Earl:

Happy to do it - Thanks for being here.

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:57 Chris Earl

11:57

[Comment From GuestGuest: ]

Thanks chris so they dont plan on any in dubuque

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:57 Guest

11:57

[Comment From CandaceCandace: ]

I think the cameras have changed the habits of "some" but it doesnt stop those that slow down to pass the camers on 380 and then suddenly they are a blur ahead of you because they do speed up again

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:57 Candace

11:57

[Comment From GuestGuest: ]

Yeah, and the ones that ride the bumper are the ones that deserve a ticket

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:57 Guest

11:57

[Comment From guestguest: ]

snack, grow up!

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:57 guest

11:57

[Comment From guestguest: ]

Why is it hard to to to court? If people start trying to take it to court , showing up and representing themselves, it could cost cedar rapids more money in their legal representation and tie up court time. This happened in a local small town when the police picked up many town folks. Everyone have told people don't come through this town. They hung out at the High School and picked up people who came to sporting events etc. It ultimately had an impact on local business, and has had costs for the town. Including its reputation. The real question is if it keeps people from injury?

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:57 guest

11:58

Chris Earl:

Not in Dubuque... but tonight at 10, we'll look at Waterloo -- and whether that city is considering them. In August, GATSO had a presentation in Waterloo...

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:58 Chris Earl

11:58

Chris Earl:

Agreed Candace on that - it turns into a touch NASCAR by Glass Road on I-380 northbound once the caution flag is put away.

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:58 Chris Earl

11:59

Chris Earl:

As for court - I've heard the arguments the city makes it as hard as possible to fight a $75 ticket. Still not sure how difficult it really is... you have to set up an appointment, then come back on a select Thursday night to contest it, between 6-9 pm.

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:59 Chris Earl

11:59

[Comment From Lady BLady B: ]

Hopefully these cameras are a "Gibb's Slap" to people to be more responsible adults.

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:59 Lady B

11:59

[Comment From RonARonA: ]

Where is the discussion about the way to defend against getting one of these tickets, should one want his/her day in court? Any experiences from folks?

Thursday November 11, 2010 11:59 RonA

12:00

Chris Earl:

Hi RonA - thanks for writing in. We had this on Monday night in our series... I just touched on it in my 11:59 post. From what I saw -- if you have a reasonable argument, the city seems reasonable with dismissing. However, if you are doing 61 in a 40 -- that won't get tossed. But if you have multiple tickets a few days apart, they appear open to dismissing the subsequent violations.

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:00 Chris Earl

12:00

[Comment From floydfloyd: ]

i repeat, if the citations aren't put on your driving record, the same as those written by officers from their units, they're not fair, no equal protection. Also, when they send out citations do they also check to see if the car is owned by a wanted person or one who owes back fines no caught by the cameras....what about drivers without license's or insurance, it don't check for that

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:00 floyd

12:01

[Comment From GuestGuest: ]

Why would anyone fight a ticket if they were breaking the speed laws. Seriously, put your adult panties on.

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:01 Guest

12:02

Chris Earl:

There was one curious case from when we went to see how to fight a cam ticket... One man claimed he had 'bad brakes' on his van. The video showed he ran a red light -- but the brake lights were on in the images. The man also brought proof from a mechanic that the lights were bad...and that they were fixed. Ticket dismissed.

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:02 Chris Earl

12:03

[Comment From GuestGuest: ]

Hi Chris, just curious what the Iowa DOT's official position is on the cameras? I'm guessing on I-380 they would have to have some approval process before the city can place them on the overhead signs

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:03 Guest

12:03

[Comment From BobBob: ]

I agree with the upset local attorney. I'm "in legal" as well (not a licensed attorney in Iowa). This is likely going to get very ugly. I find it quite violative of even more than just due process. Aside from the fact that the alleged speeder has no ability to cross-examine the witnesses against him, doesn't an officer have to have positive ID before signing a ticket? If so, a police officer who certifies one of these citations is in my opinion, knowingly providing false representations to GATSO and to the City. In other words, the officer is creating the false impression that the actual driver had been identified. Henceforth, this would create a great case for it being a fraudulent scheme and artifice for the purpose of obtaining money from the public by false pretenses. Also, GATSO, the City, and the Police are using USPS to enforce this "program." If it is in fact proven fraudulent, that's also mail fraud. Maybe racketeering? RICO violation?

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:03 Bob

12:03

[Comment From floydfloyd: ]

fine the speeders, but put it on their record..if they're the driver????

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:03 floyd

12:04

Chris Earl:

As for the DOT -- and this is pure, 100% speculation on my part :) - I imagine this is a city issue and not a state issue. The police chief said he wanted to push the speed limit down on 380 through the S-curve and the DOT would not allow that. So, they put in the cameras.

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:04 Chris Earl

12:05

Chris Earl:

Bob - I must admit, that's quite a "tree" you were able to go from the initial thought. Very intriguing. I know the city is using the basic framework as a "parking ticket" here. Doesn't matter who is driving - just where the car is registered to. But I get your point on this as well...

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:05 Chris Earl

12:05

[Comment From KelliKelli: ]

I can understand there are some times in which speeding just might be neccesary and then im sure the courts would dismiss the ticket.... EX- I got a ticket about 45 days ago for speeding through an intersection.. I was able to have it dismissed because I was being driven to the hospital in my car in labor. All I had to bring was dcumentation that I was checked at labor and delivery around that same timeframe.

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:05 Kelli

12:05

[Comment From floydfloyd: ]

there are other unfair dmv rules in this state...why don't tractors and their trailer traveling down the highway have to have a vehicle license...

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:05 floyd

12:06

Chris Earl:

Kelli - yeah, I think your situation warranted becoming an "alleged scofflaw" for a brief amount of time. :)

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:06 Chris Earl

12:06

[Comment From GuestGuest: ]

I know the phoenix area has cameras also I dont understand why people are so mad about them If you obey the law you have no worries. DO they want to get rid of cops also so they can break traffic laws. It is getting ridiculous when this is all people can complain about. I fyou break the law pay the consequences

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:06 Guest

12:07

Chris Earl:

Re: Phoenix. However, the state of Arizona is pulling the cameras out, believe it or not. I read they also had millions and millions of unpaid citations as well.

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:07 Chris Earl

12:07

[Comment From Lady BLady B: ]

I don't like all the excuses people have against te tickets and the cameras. If there are other ways to ensure drivers WILL slow down, let's do it while getting people who have lead foots. I do not want to drive in a city or in a rural area... where I'm white knuckled. Again, this is NOT a NASCAR race. I keep wondering if we are in Iowa... or in Hazzard county!

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:07 Lady B

12:07

[Comment From RonARonA: ]

It seems like a competent attorney could get some good PR if he/she successfully challenges the legal theory that the City is using in non-identifying the violator in real-time or other due process technicalities.

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:07 RonA

12:07

[Comment From KellyKelly: ]

I was upset when I got a ticket when they had the mobile cameras in Davenport years ago. I didn't live there but went there once in a while for work. They moved those cameras around all the time and you never knew where they were going to be. Case in point - the ticket I got was because the camera was at the bottom of a hill. It's hard to slow way down when you're going down a hill. Regardless, I still think the cameras on 380 are a good idea - they aren't hidden, there are signs posted that there are cameras, and people aren't driving quite a fast as they used to.

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:07 Kelly

12:07

[Comment From jeremy cjeremy c: ]

does anyone know the cameras frame rate ? or does anyone have access to see the software ?

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:07 jeremy c

12:08

Chris Earl:

Hi Jeremy - I'm unsure of the frame rate. From the video I have seen, it's a fairly sharp and detailed picture -- even from my rather 'amateur' eye.

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:08 Chris Earl

12:08

[Comment From SamSam: ]

I think a lot of people were not aware or just didnt listen to the stories well enough to realize that the "red light" cameras are also speed cameras. I have talked to several who didnt realize that and just so far had been lucky with no tickets.

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:08 Sam

12:08

[Comment From jeremy cjeremy c: ]

what about the people who got tickets but found not guilty ? should they not be reimbursed for wasting their time ?

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:08 jeremy c

12:09

[Comment From GuestGuest: ]

Good post Kelly I think moving them around would be the best thing ever that way it forces everyone ot drive speed limit all the time

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:09 Guest

12:09

[Comment From Lady BLady B: ]

There is NO excuse for speeding.

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:09 Lady B

12:09

[Comment From jeremy cjeremy c: ]

i wish people would stop saying that you cant get a ticket unless you speed, its not true. several people have got tickets that were unwarranted yet had to take time off work to go deal with it. its silly.

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:09 jeremy c

12:09

[Comment From JulieJulie: ]

As for the mobile jeep camera.. the city/police list the area the jeep will be in each week.. it doesnt give specific locations but will give you a street etc

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:09 Julie

12:10

Chris Earl:

However, I do see driving behavior changing - at least from the numbers... We reported this two nights back and I apologize for not having the exact numbers in front of me...

On I-380 Northbound at Diagonal (the main spot for revenue and citations):
From June 12 (first day "live) to July 11: about 2,700 tickets
From Sept 12 to Oct 11: about 1,270.

That's quite a drop. I would argue people definitely notice.

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:10 Chris Earl

12:10

[Comment From jeremy cjeremy c: ]

there are several good excuses to speeding, what a silly comment

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:10 jeremy c

12:10

[Comment From ann-ann-: ]

There is a standard error of measurement for any sort of device that would measure speed.

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:10 ann-

12:10

[Comment From RonARonA: ]

Yes, the posting of the Red Jeep location is a good thing that the city is doing. I just forget to look it up every week. my bad!

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:10 RonA

12:10

[Comment From RyanRyan: ]

I know I have gone to other areas to shop now. I'm a safe driver and try to obey the laws. Seems like when I'm in C.R. now I'm worried more about the cams instead of actually driving.

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:10 Ryan

12:12

Chris Earl:

Also, during Hawkeye football Saturdays... I do notice a bump in the 380 citations. Yet, going through the numbers last night - a mild surprise for me - no terribly sharp jump during the rush hour traffic stretches on 380. Maybe it just clumps at that point. People see others driving slow...and they slow down??

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:12 Chris Earl

12:12

[Comment From jeremy cjeremy c: ]

i was told that the money would be put into the city council's budget, now i am told its going into the police budget . which is correct ?

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:12 jeremy c

12:12

[Comment From floydfloyd: ]

WHY ISN'T ANYONE UPSET THAT THIS CITATION DON'T GO

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:12 floyd

12:12

[Comment From GuestGuest: ]

Move the cameras around and dont tell that way to law breakers can pay and maybe eventually decide to obey the law or be broke from fines Laws are put in place for a reason

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:12 Guest

12:13

Chris Earl:

Although, with the speed tolerance set between 11-12 MPH over the limit all over the town, the city could probably bring in two to three times the money if the tolerance was set to 6 MPH over...

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:13 Chris Earl

12:13

[Comment From Lady BLady B: ]

There is NO excuse for speeding! I do like it when people pass me like I'm not moving when I'm going the speed limit. You speed, you get a ticket! Especially when kids are in your vehicle.

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:13 Lady B

12:13

[Comment From jeremy cjeremy c: ]

here is the question i ask, yet never get answered. where is the incentive to fix these dangerous intersections now that the city is making a profit off of them ? nobody ever has a good answer for that

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:13 jeremy c

12:14

Chris Earl:

The incentive to fix the dangerous intersections? Good question. I'm trying to think of each intersection in my head -- I think Edgewood/42nd and Center Point/under Collins Road are my own "top two" where the cameras are. Combine high rate of speed with lights at those...

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:14 Chris Earl

12:14

[Comment From NN: ]

Am I the only person who wishes there were more red light cameras? Every time I see someone run a red light it makes me crazy. I wouldn't care if every light had a camera.

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:14 N

12:14

[Comment From RyanRyan: ]

Chris don't give them any ideas...

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:14 Ryan

12:15

Chris Earl:

Ryan, if I had more influence than I do now... the world would be a dark, dark place.

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:15 Chris Earl

12:15

[Comment From KellyKelly: ]

Wow, it's that high? I figured it was probably set to 6 over

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:15 Kelly

12:15

Chris Earl:

Kelly - nope, it appears to be (from the data): 47 for a 35 MPH, 41 for a 30 and 67 MPH on I-380.

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:15 Chris Earl

12:16

Chris Earl:

Not that I'd ever advocate breaking the law :) ... but that is the tolerance from what the data shows...

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:16 Chris Earl

12:16

[Comment From jeremy cjeremy c: ]

have they given any tickets for under the speed limit ?

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:16 jeremy c

12:16

[Comment From GuestGuest: ]

and for those that dont pay their fines, just like anything else put it on their credit report People need to be held responsible for their actinos

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:16 Guest

12:16

Chris Earl:

Yes, bad debt goes to collections on these.

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:16 Chris Earl

12:16

[Comment From KBKB: ]

Id like to know who the company is that installs these cameras. What their presentation is like- whether or not its directed towards safety or revenue

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:16 KB

12:16

[Comment From JulieJulie: ]

I understand law is a law.. and yes maybe if they enforced them a lot more people wouldnt speed.. but people know there is a tolerance and even if you try to go 55 through the curves you practically get ran over

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:16 Julie

12:16

[Comment From guestguest: ]

I just try to stay with the traffic (the slower usually), and not get hurt. I suppose doing that will land me a ticket.

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:16 guest

12:16

[Comment From jeremy cjeremy c: ]

there are plenty of good reasons to speed lady B, get over it.

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:16 jeremy c

12:16

[Comment From RonARonA: ]

In the United Kingdom, the use of Closed Circuit TV (CCTV) has put everyone on notice that when you are outside, you are fair game for any one of thousands of cameras. Do people think this will eventually happen in our high crime area?

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:16 RonA

12:16

[Comment From Lady BLady B: ]

10 over is a good allowance. It at least gives leeway for when having to pass a semi truck or a cluster of vehicles you do not want to be near.

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:16 Lady B

12:16

[Comment From Lady BLady B: ]

No, I'm with you on that, N.

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:16 Lady B

12:16

[Comment From GuestGuest: ]

6 over is plenty Why do we let law breakers be heard and take all the media time.

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:16 Guest

12:17

[Comment From jeremy cjeremy c: ]

42nd would have been a prime location for redesign. but now its making money, so we wont see it

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:17 jeremy c

12:17

[Comment From jeremy cjeremy c: ]

also, why cant we get a copy of the study they use to determine the "dangerous" intersections ?

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:17 jeremy c

12:17

Chris Earl:

42nd/Edgewood is tough as northbound Edgewood traffic is coming off going 40-45 MPH into Glass and then at 42nd. Not sure if it needs a re-design. That is the paradox. People will see future construction and go, "wait, what was wrong with the intersection?!?"

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:17 Chris Earl

12:18

[Comment From Lady BLady B: ]

Give me reasons why you have to speed, Jeremy.

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:18 Lady B

12:18

Chris Earl:

Alright crew, I've got about 10 more minutes.. then I have to get out of my slippers and actually start getting ready for work (at home now with my feet up - I love technology)...

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:18 Chris Earl

12:19

[Comment From GuestGuest: ]

Society needs to slow down. Everyone now a days always seem in a hurry. Plan better so that you can drive the speed limit and follow the laws

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:19 Guest

12:19

[Comment From RonARonA: ]

Be sure to check the condition of your tires with Winter approaching. I-380 in the curvy portions is/gets very slick when wet. I had a fish-tail incident. It is easy to ignore your tires!

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:19 RonA

12:19

[Comment From jeremy cjeremy c: ]

im a doctor and get a call for an emergency, its sunday and no traffic. what to do ? speed or let someone die

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:19 jeremy c

12:19

[Comment From guestguest: ]

Why does the company who installs them get a cut of the money?

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:19 guest

12:19

[Comment From GuestGuest: ]

Lady B if you was passing a semi or other vehicle, that should be seen in the picture from camera should it not?

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:19 Guest

12:19

[Comment From Lady BLady B: ]

Why can you not get the study? Have you looked? Where have you been about Edgewood and 42nd? Dear Lord that intersection has been a death trap for years!

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:19 Lady B

12:20

Chris Earl:

42nd/Edgewood. I do know when I'm coming down 42nd, west into the intersection -- I'm always cautious, expecting a 60 MPH car to come zooming through on Edgewood.

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:20 Chris Earl

12:20

[Comment From jeremy cjeremy c: ]

i ask several times, they wont give it out

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:20 jeremy c

12:20

[Comment From JustinJustin: ]

Chris, I followed a guy driving 70 on edgewood and slowed to 40 just to go through the 42 st light...then back up to 70. I can't imagine these actually making a real difference.

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:20 Justin

12:20

Chris Earl:

Justin - I think I've been behind that guy before too...

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:20 Chris Earl

12:22

[Comment From KBKB: ]

none of my posts are being sent!!!

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:22 KB

12:22

[Comment From KBKB: ]

whatever

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:22 KB

12:22

[Comment From Lady BLady B: ]

You get an emergency call, and you have to drive 10 over the speed limit. Risking yourself and others just to get to an emergency? Does that really make sense? What doctor will put themself and others at risk of another emergency just to get to an emergency?

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:22 Lady B

12:22

[Comment From jeremy cjeremy c: ]

that was probably me ! i wont get a ticket because i just leave the dealer plates on. if im in a hurry and no one is around, who cares.

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:22 jeremy c

12:22

[Comment From Justin FJustin F: ]

Chris, have the cops tagged any cops driving through the speed cameras yet? You know, they can't speed unless they have lights and or sirens on...or unless they are following a car to determine it's speed.

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:22 Justin F

12:23

Chris Earl:

Hi Justin - not sure on that. Although, I have seen squad cars - usually at night - driving at a higher rate of speed without lights on. I'd have to check the official policy on this as well. Thanks.

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:23 Chris Earl

12:23

[Comment From Lady BLady B: ]

Justin... next time you see that guy, grab the liscense plate number and contact the police.

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:23 Lady B

12:23

[Comment From Mr. RMr. R: ]

I wonder what the target is from the company who installs these cameras... are they installing it for saefty or revenue?

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:23 Mr. R

12:23

Chris Earl:

From the company? I imagine the phrase, "what's worth doing is worth doing for money" applies. They are a business -- and I imagine - a fairly successful one.

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:23 Chris Earl

12:23

[Comment From kamk96kamk96: ]

What happened to taking your license if you get caught going 20+, obviously you aren't mature or smart enough or responsible enough to have a license .

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:23 kamk96

12:24

[Comment From Justin FJustin F: ]

Trust me...I've done the research...you're former desk mate...

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:24 Justin F

12:24

[Comment From Mr. RMr. R: ]

The police cannot do anything about it, how can you prove it?

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:24 Mr. R

12:24

[Comment From jeremy cjeremy c: ]

yes it makes sense, get over it. i drive a modern car that is safe at speeds up to 100mph. why do you care if you are nowhere near me ?

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:24 jeremy c

12:25

[Comment From jeremy cjeremy c: ]

dont do it justin ! fight the powers that be !

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:25 jeremy c

12:25

[Comment From jeremy cjeremy c: ]

pro-camera people, would you volunteer to put cameras on your car ? that would be a great idea !

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:25 jeremy c

12:25

[Comment From Justin FJustin F: ]

To Jeremy C...if you crash, it's my tax dollars or my insurance premiums that go up.

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:25 Justin F

12:25

Chris Earl:

We're wrapping the chat up. Any last minute questions for Chris?

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:25 Chris Earl

12:26

KCRG.com Editor:

Sorry about that Chris.

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:26 KCRG.com Editor

12:26

Chris Earl:

(That was an admin)... I won't go Third Person here! :)

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:26 Chris Earl

12:26

[Comment From jeremy cjeremy c: ]

its not justin

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:26 jeremy c

12:26

[Comment From Lady BLady B: ]

Revenue is good. But think about it... have you heard of a very nasty, deadly accident there on those curves on the interstate through downtown? No semi's flying off the interstate and crashing below, no car jumping the median or scraping the side, etc.

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:26 Lady B

12:26

[Comment From guestguest: ]

The company who installs them should be paid for that service, and not get a portion of each ticket. It makes me question their services and motives.

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:26 guest

12:26

[Comment From BethBeth: ]

Thanks again or your time, Chris.

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:26 Beth

12:26

[Comment From Justin FJustin F: ]

Chris, why are you so suave?

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:26 Justin F

12:26

[Comment From jeremy cjeremy c: ]

Chris, please get the study they used to pick the locations and post it !!!

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:26 jeremy c

12:26

Chris Earl:

Fire away -- if you have any "grievance that need airing" or questions.

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:26 Chris Earl

12:27

Chris Earl:

Then I'll go brush my teeth... :)

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:27 Chris Earl

12:27

[Comment From KellyKelly: ]

Thanks, Chris!

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:27 Kelly

12:27

[Comment From Lady BLady B: ]

Thank you, Chis. Good discussion.

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:27 Lady B

12:27

Chris Earl:

I was glad to be here as I've spent the last three weeks digging through all of this... it's quite an undertaking but one I found extremely interesting.

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:27 Chris Earl

12:28

[Comment From jeremy cjeremy c: ]

oh and chris, i want you back on mornings. less hinson more Earl !!!

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:28 jeremy c

12:28

[Comment From trent wtrent w: ]

this is definetly not fair, for instance what happens when it is Icey out and you have every intention of stopping at a traffic light BUT CANT because of ice or slush on the road ,if youaccidently slide through you are going to get a ticket from a camera ,but if an officer is present he or she will se that you did try to stop and more than likely WILL NOT give you a ticket due to road conditions .

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:28 trent w

12:28

[Comment From BethBeth: ]

My only Grievance is with Jeremy C's driving. He won't be happy til he kills someone

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:28 Beth

12:28

Chris Earl:

Trent -- I'd say if you fight it this winter, I imagine it would be dismissed.

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:28 Chris Earl

12:28

Chris Earl:

Just a hunch...

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:28 Chris Earl

12:28

Chris Earl:

They DO seem reasonable.

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:28 Chris Earl

12:29

[Comment From Lady BLady B: ]

Jeremy. get lights and a siren to speed to an emergency. Otherwise, REMAIN THE SPEED LIMIT!!!

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:29 Lady B

12:29

[Comment From Lady BLady B: ]

Likewise, Beth. It's disturbing.

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:29 Lady B

12:29

[Comment From GuestGuest: ]

If they are really using the cameras to help improve safety, then why did they not put them at the intersections with the most accidents?

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:29 Guest

12:29

Chris Earl:

Alright, 12:30 is here. Last installment is tonight at 10, as Waterloo is - at least - considering putting the cameras in there -- near the other end of 380.

Thanks so much for being here today and enjoy your Wednesday. Find one moment today that brings you joy. Finding two is even better. - Chris

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:29 Chris Earl

12:30

Chris Earl:

Err... make that Thursday.

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:30 Chris Earl

12:30

Chris Earl:

Proficient prose ruined...by the facts of the day!

Thursday November 11, 2010 12:30 Chris Earl

12:30