| Automated Red-Light Enforcement
In a 1999 citywide survey, District of Columbia residents identified unsafe driving—including running red lights and stop signs—as their number one public safety concern. Sixty-two percent said unsafe driving was a serious problem in their communities. (See the results of drivers who take chances and run red lights.)
To help combat the serious problem of red-light running, the Metropolitan Police Department implemented its automated red-light enforcement program in August 1999. The program uses photo enforcement technology to enforce the law fairly and consistently, with the goal of reducing violations, preventing crashes and injuries, and saving lives.
Results
Online Features
Learn More About the Program
Obey District Law
- Always wear a seat belt, in front and rear seats.
- Keep a safe distance away from the vehicle in front of you. A "safe distance" depends on a variety of factors: weather, road conditions, time of day, and speed limit. However, in general, you should maintain one car-length between you and the car in front of you for every 10 mph of speed.
- Turn lights on if your windshield wipers are on.
- Don’t drink and drive.
- Don’t drive over the posted speed limit.
- Adjust your maximum speed for prevailing weather and traffic conditions.
- Right turn on red—after a complete stop, and only where right on red is allowed.
Safety Tips
- Allow ample time to reach your destination safely.
- Don’t speed to compensate for lost time.
- Be extra cautious during twilight hours.
- Never drive when you are tired.
- Remember—speed kills.
- Stay alert when driving at all times—don't be distracted by phone calls, reading, or other activities.
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