Traffic Cameras in Cyprus – a brilliant idea or a disaster facing the hefty, unprecedented fines?

G Kouzalis LLC would like to ‘discuss’ / speak about Traffic Cameras in Cyprus. The recent installation of the permanent traffic camera’s. Also, the provision of the mobile traffic camera enforcement vehicles has caused quite a storm in Cyprus.  Whilst many other countries worldwide have had traffic cameras in force for many years, people are used to and understand their purpose, their implementation in Cyprus is still new and understandably the citizens of Cyprus are unused to having their ‘driving’ enforced to such a degree.

Traffic misdemeanors were grossly inflated

Initially fines for relatively minor traffic misdemeanors were grossly inflate. Also, how now being drastically reduce however. Further, the fact that these camera’s are still catching approximately 1700 offences daily does bring to the fore of everyone’s mind. Further, as to the standards of driving. With a population of less than 1 million this equates to approximately 0.002% of the island committing an offence daily. Now in retrospect this is a small amount, but for a small island it is high.

Mobile enforcement vehicle – Traffic Cameras in Cyprus

There has been some furore about the mobile enforcement vehicles. Also, in particular to their positioning, their location, the signage used. But this doesn’t just occur in Cyprus, this happens globally. Also, other countries also face issues with complaints about the mobile traffic enforcement vans. Whilst the implementation of the traffic cameras in Cyprus has caused such a stir. Further, one cannot disregard their benefits. Serial traffic offenders are being caught and fined (whether the fines or paid is irrespective). Also, the presence of cameras is making drivers more alert to their presence. Also, to watch their speed, not use mobile phones, not eat or drink, wear their seat belts etc etc… which can only lead to a benefit of less accidents and lives save?!

Hindrance not only a safety measure

So, whilst the traffic camera’s are for some a ‘hindrance’ not only are they a safety measure but they are bringing to the state some funds which they were not receiving before. (Some people may argue that the company who has award the contract from the state for the camera’s is also making money, and this is true, but any business makes money from consumers. Sadly, that is how the world works.) Whether we like it or not, the traffic cameras in Cyprus are here to stay and we do agree with this implementation.  Who knows how many lives they will ultimately save, but even if it is just one, this justifies their installation.

Conclusion – Traffic Cameras in Cyprus

What is important for the government to improve is the functioning of the cameras when you turn right as that complicates and imposes hefty unnecessary fines to drivers, but also to make sure that imposition of the cameras is to reduce accidents and not to destroy families ecnonomically.