Proposed bill would increase length of yellow signals at red-light camera intersections in Maryland

ANNAPOLIS, Md. - A proposed bill in Maryland is trying to increase the length of yellow signals at red-light camera intersections in an effort to reduce the number of crashes.

Safety advocates say that a 15 percent increase in crashes can be seen once a red-light camera is installed at an intersection. They say increasing the duration of yellow lights by just half a tick, from three and a half to four seconds, could reduce the number of crashes, including read end collisions.

Dubbed the "Four Second Act," the measure is sponsored by Delegate Marc C. Korman from Montgomery County.

AAA Mid-Atlantic says increased clearance time from longer yellow signals would increase intersection safety for motorists, pedestrians and cyclists.

It could also decrease the number of red-light camera tickets in Maryland, they say.