B.C.'s upgraded and expanded Intersection Safety Camera (ISC) program is now fully installed at all 140 sites.

The digital cameras are located in 26 communities to help save lives and reduce the almost 230 crashes that occur daily at intersections throughout the province. The cameras detect and photograph vehicles running a red light, and are expected to reduce casualty crashes at ISC sites by about six per cent annually.

The upgraded and expanded Intersection Safety Camera program is a joint initiative with the provincial government, ICBC and police to cut the high incidence of intersection crashes, which are often the most serious because they include head-on and side-impact crashes.

The program was introduced in 1999 and has been upgraded and expanded from 120 sites, with 30 film cameras rotating among them, to 140 sites with a dedicated digital camera at each location.

A team of experts, comprising RCMP, local police services, ICBC, and engineering and traffic safety specialists, helped select B.C.'s highest-risk intersections. Site selection was based on where cameras would be the most effective in reducing serious crashes and fatalities.

Not all cameras will be activated at the same time. The cameras will be operated strategically, when historic and current data show the risk is greatest. This will maximize both the benefits and cost-effectiveness of the expanded program.

Cameras have been going live in a phased approach since January 2011.

Ticket revenue from the cameras will continue to be distributed among B.C. municipalities to enhance their policing and community-based public safety programs. Distribution of revenue is not based on the presence or number of cameras within a community.

Quotes:

Solicitor General Shirley Bond -

"In B.C. there are almost 230 crashes at intersections every day. Many of these leave families having to deal with injuries or the loss of a loved one. The cameras will help deter red light runners, and hold those accountable who chose to put other lives at risk."

British Columbia Association of Chiefs of Police (BCACP) Traffic Safety Committee Chair Chief Constable Jamie Graham -

"We welcome these cameras because high risk driving has no place on our roads and we'll do everything we can to stop those who disregard other people's safety. We've seen the carnage of intersection crashes - and we know this program will help make our roads safer."

ICBC director of road safety Fiona Temple -

"The goal of this program is to prevent intersection crashes and injuries, and to save lives by deterring red light runners. But did you know that failing to yield the right-of-way, speeding and inattention are also top factors in intersection crashes? Whether you're a driver, pedestrian or cyclist, do your part - slow down and use extra caution at intersections."

Quick Facts:

* All ticket revenue goes to B.C. municipalities.

* Violation tickets carry a $167 fine, which can be reduced by $25 if paid within 30 days.

* Vehicles that have entered the intersection before the light turns red will not receive a ticket.

* A ticket is not issued if a traffic signal is in flashing red mode.

* Signs are prominently posted at the intersections to advise drivers that ISC cameras are in place.

* Registered vehicle owners do not receive driver penalty points for red light camera offences.

Learn More:

For more information about ICBC, visit: http://icbc.com/

About the Intersection Safety Camera program, including video footage and sample images, visit: http://www.icbc.com/road-safety/safer-drivers/intersection-safety

For a map of the 140 locations, visit: http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?hl=en&ie=UTF8&oe=UTF8&msa=0&msid=110832641771124554739.000494510b0891a4641f2&mid=1291843261

For a full list of ISC locations, visit: http://www.icbc.com/csDelPrd/Satellite?c=ICBC_Document_C&cid=1225928541607&pagename=ICBC%2FICBC_Document_C%2Ficbc_DocumentLinkT

Contact:

Government Communications and Public Engagement

Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General

250 356-6961

Connect with the Province of B.C. at: www.gov.bc.ca/connect