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CrossingGuard is able to track approaching traffic to predict whether or not a driver will stop for the red light. If the system predicts that the vehicle will not stop, the system begins recording the violation, and it sends a message to the signal light controller to briefly extend the red light for crossing traffic. The violation is captured on video and a collision can be avoided.
CrossingGuard thus not only saves lives by avoiding collision but also succeeds in catching the offender red-handed (no pun intended). Often, I am caught in a dilemma whether to speed through an amber light or just brake and wait it out. Since I am aware of the wait times at almost the major intersections in College Station, I use that judgment to make the call but of course, if it is a close shave I rather wait it out.
by Patrix | on Saturday, June 3rd, 2006 at 3:38 pm | 
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June 4th, 2006 at 3:48 pm reply
I am usually conflicted on the usefulness of ‘red-light cameras’ as such and would be doubly suspicious of such a ‘predictive’ technology (sounds somewhat similar to the ‘pre-cogs’ of Minority Report).
How does the system differentiate between different driver habits ? Some drivers slow down early, while some other might want to brake at the last moment. The latter is okay if you have super-duty brakes and it is safe to (no cars tailigating you). I do like the part about avoiding collission though.
IMO I always thought an useful strategy at tht lights would be to have a countdown meter showing how long the light will stay green or once red when it will turn green again. I have a feeling that people are more ready to be patient if they know beforehand how long their wait is. Not everyone might be familiar with the timings of all the city traffic lights.
June 4th, 2006 at 5:48 pm reply
Bongo,
In Delhi a lot of traffic lights have these meters which tell the wait time. Now Delhi drivers are notorious for being impatient but this system has helped a wee bit.
June 4th, 2006 at 5:56 pm reply
Now although I appreciate the strategy of a countdown for signals in theory, I have seen it not work in Navi Mumbai where I was visiting over December. People tend to zoom off a few seconds before the signal turns green thus endangering the oncoming traffic. Now of course in India, we always drive cautiously and do not trust the signals much.