Miami Beach, FL - Miami Beach is revising its red light camera enforcement policy by eliminating most automated citations issued to drivers making right turns on red at camera monitored intersections.
The Miami Beach City Commission approved the change after residents raised concerns about receiving tickets despite stopping before making legal right turns.
City officials said the updated policy is intended to address situations in which drivers come to a complete stop but slowly move forward to improve their view of oncoming traffic before completing a turn.
Under the new rules, automated citations for right turns on red will no longer be issued at most intersections equipped with red light cameras.
However, the city will continue enforcing right turn violations at the intersection of Alton Road and 17th Street, where officials said traffic conditions and safety concerns warrant continued camera enforcement.
Mayor Steven Meiner, who sponsored the measure alongside Commissioner Alex Fernandez, said the decision followed discussions with residents and a review of how the city's automated enforcement system was being applied.
Commissioners said many of the cited drivers were attempting to make legal turns rather than intentionally disregarding traffic signals.
The city emphasized that the change only affects right turn on red violations captured by automated cameras.
Drivers who enter an intersection after a red light while traveling straight through will continue to receive citations under the existing enforcement program.
Officials also confirmed the policy will not apply retroactively. Drivers who have already received right turn on red camera citations remain responsible for paying the fine or contesting the violation through the city's appeals process.
Miami Beach will continue using red light cameras to enforce other traffic laws at monitored intersections.