Mayfield Law, LLC | May 5, 2025 | Personal Injury
Learning about traffic and red-light cameras in Brunswick, GA, helps drivers stay informed and avoid violations. Over the years, these monitoring systems have changed across Georgia as cities work to reduce accidents at busy intersections.
The Current State of Traffic Cameras in Brunswick
Brunswick uses traffic cameras mainly to monitor traffic flow, not to issue tickets. These monitoring cameras serve a different purpose than the former red-light enforcement cameras that captured violations. Today, they help city officials study traffic patterns, adjust signal timing, and improve road planning.
Brunswick removed its red-light enforcement cameras several years ago. In 2006, the city installed three red-light cameras at high-risk intersections to help reduce crashes. According to The Brunswick News, officials later took down the cameras after they had “served their purpose” by making those intersections safer.
Many drivers confuse traffic monitoring cameras with enforcement cameras. The monitoring cameras on top of traffic signals are used only to watch traffic patterns and do not take photos for citations. Brunswick residents should be aware of this important difference.
How Traffic Cameras Work in Georgia
Georgia uses two main types of traffic camera systems:
Traffic Monitoring Cameras
These cameras:
- Track traffic flow and congestion
- Help officials respond to accidents faster
- Don’t record license plates or issue tickets
- They are usually mounted on traffic lights or tall poles
These monitoring cameras are what you’ll mostly see in Brunswick today, helping officials manage traffic more effectively.
Red Light Enforcement Cameras
When cities use these cameras, they:
- Take photos of vehicles running red lights
- Record license plate details
- Create citations mailed to vehicle owners
- Are usually placed at the side or corner of intersections
These enforcement cameras work around the clock at problem intersections where police can’t always patrol. According to Georgia Code § 40-6-20(f)(3), red light camera tickets carry a maximum fine of $70 and don’t add points to your license or affect insurance rates.
Georgia’s Red-Light Camera Laws
The Georgia Department of Transportation sets rules for red light cameras, which must follow certain requirements:
- All red-light cameras need permits from the Georgia DOT
- Clear signs must warn drivers about camera enforcement
- Yellow lights must stay on long enough based on the speed limit
- Camera systems need regular testing and certification
These rules help ensure the systems treat drivers fairly and work properly across the state. Cities using these cameras must follow these standards to stay legal. Several Georgia cities, including Atlanta, Marietta, and Savannah, still use active red light camera programs.
Benefits and Controversies of Traffic Cameras
Traffic cameras have both fans and critics throughout Georgia.
Potential Benefits
Traffic and red light cameras can:
- Cut down on dangerous red light running
- Reduce serious side-impact car accidents at intersections
- Free up police for other important duties
- Collect useful data for traffic planning
These safety advantages explain why many cities invest in camera systems despite some public pushback. Safety advocates often point to research showing fewer crashes at intersections with camera enforcement.
Common Criticisms
Critics of traffic cameras often worry about:
- Privacy and too much surveillance
- Cameras are being used more for money than for safety
- Technical problems leading to wrong tickets
- Tickets are going to car owners instead of actual drivers
These concerns have led some communities, like Brunswick, to end red light camera programs they once had. These ongoing debates shape how cities like Brunswick approach traffic enforcement technology.
What Brunswick Drivers Should Know
If you drive in Brunswick, here’s what to know about traffic cameras:
Within Brunswick
- The city now uses monitoring cameras, not enforcement cameras
- These cameras watch traffic patterns but don’t issue tickets
- Police officers enforce traffic laws, not automated systems
When Traveling Outside Brunswick
- Other Georgia cities may use enforcement cameras
- Watch for signs saying “Photo Enforced” at intersections
- Remember that in Georgia, vehicle owners get the tickets, not necessarily the drivers
- Red light camera tickets in Georgia don’t affect your driving record
Safe Driving Practices at Intersections
Whether cameras are present or not, these driving habits keep everyone safer:
- Slow down as you approach intersections, especially on yellow lights
- Stop completely at red lights before turning right
- Never speed up to beat a yellow light
- Keep enough distance between cars to avoid sudden stops
Following these defensive driving practices helps prevent accidents and protects you from potential liability claims. In traffic accident cases, running a red light often establishes clear negligence, making the at-fault driver legally and financially responsible for damages. Safe driving habits create a strong defense against both citations and liability claims.
Contact the Brunswick Personal Injury Lawyers of Mayfield Law, LLC for Help Today
For more information, contact Mayfield Law, LLC to schedule a free consultation with our experienced personal injury attorneys. We proudly serve clients in Brunswick, GA, Nahunta, GA, as well as Glynn County and Brantley County. We’re here to offer trusted, compassionate legal guidance. Let us help you navigate the legal process and secure the compensation you deserve.
Mayfield Law, LLC Brunswick
1611 Union St
Brunswick, GA 31520
(912) 457-8557
Mayfield Law, LLC Nahunta
13903 E Cleveland St
Nahunta, GA 31553
(912) 457-8557